My selection is on the 'over' between Minnesota and Utah at 9:10 pm et on Wednesday.

I'm anticipating a high-scoring track meet between these Northwest Division rivals on Wednesday night. Minnesota got crushed by Denver last night. The lopsided nature of that contest actually helps the Timberwolves cause here as no starter played more than 20 minutes. Here, we'll note that Minnesota has been the picture of consistency offensively, scoring at least 110 points in 16 straight games entering Wednesday's contest. Utah has been held to 108 and 111 points in suffering consecutive losses over its last two games. I'm not one bit worried about the Jazz offense though. They're just two games removed from a 131-point performance in a home win over the Raptors. They've scored at least 120 points in five of their last nine games. Utah has faced Minnesota only twice at full strength (or close to it) this season and scored 132 and 126 points in those two contests (it was missing both Lauri Markannen and Collin Sexton in the other meeting - a 118-108 loss). I think both teams enter this game knowing they'll need to keep their foot on the gas for four quarters in order to secure a win. Take the over (8*).

SEC Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Florida and Alabama at 9 pm et on Wednesday.

Despite playing at the fasted tempo in the country this season (according to KenPom), Alabama has posted just two 'over' results in its last 10 games. Each of the Crimson Tide's last two contests have stayed 'under' the total. That's helped set us up with a very reasonable total on Wednesday as the Tide host the Florida Gators. Florida checks in off a 72-67 loss at Kentucky on Saturday. Both of these teams tend to give up a ton of scoring opportunities with Florida having allowed at least 60 field goal attempts in seven straight and nine of its last 10 games overall. Alabama has yielded more than 60 field goal attempts to its opponents in 16 of its last 18 contests. While both squads rate out well in terms of adjusted defensive efficiency (again according to KenPom), I believe the door is open for both offenses to go off on Wednesday. Florida has been held under 70 points in three straight games entering this contest - its longest such streak of the season. It did show some signs of life offensively last time out, knocking down 23 field goals in a tough spot at Kentucky. After facing a pair of down-trodden squads in Vandy and LSU over its last two games, I believe Alabama could be in for a bit of a 'shock to the system' here, noting that prior to holding those two foes under 20 made field goals, the Crimson Tide had allowed seven of their previous eight opponents to knock down more than 20 field goals. Offensively, Alabama is elite. The Crimson Tide continue to 'fill it up', making good on at least 25 field goals in an incredible 15 of their last 16 games overall. The Gators were locked-in defensively earlier in the campaign but have since sagged in that regard, allowing eight of their last 10 opponents to knock down at least 22 field goals - a number Alabama is sure to eclipse with ease here. The pace will be there, whether this total proves high enough will depend on whether the two teams can make the most of their scoring opportunities. I'm confident they will, noting that last year's lone meeting reached 153 total points despite both teams shooting worse than 43% from the field. Take the over (10*).

Non-Conference Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between San Antonio and Toronto at 7:40 pm et on Wednesday.

This one has the potential to get ugly fast for the Spurs. However, rather than lay the points with the Raptors, we'll play the 'over' in this spot as I am confident San Antonio can punch back for stretches in this game. The Spurs are the worst defensive team we've seen in the NBA in quite some time. They enter this game in their absolute worst form of the season having allowed six straight and eight of their last nine opponents to knock down at least 46 field goals with five of those foes hitting 50 or more, including their most recent opponent, the Chicago Bulls. On the road this season, they're allowing a ridiculous average of 47 made field goals per game, leading to just north of 125 points per contest. The Raptors enter this game playing fast. They've hoisted up 90 or more field goal attempts in seven of their last eight games. They've made good on 40 or more field goals in 11 straight contests. On the flip side, the Raptors have been doing a good job of slowing their opponents down. I'm just not sure they'll need to given the wealth of scoring opportunities they're likely to have at the offensive end of the floor in this one. Note that Toronto did hold an opponent to fewer than 40 made field goals for the first time in six games on Sunday in Memphis. Of course, that was with the Grizzlies missing a number of key contributors including Ja Morant, not to mention the fact that Memphis got off just 78 field goal attempts in the game (they knocked down 38 of them). Should the pace tick up at all in this one, as I suspect it will, the potential is there for the Spurs to go off offensively. Despite San Antonio's lack of success from a win-loss perspective, it does enter this game having made good on 40 or more field goals in five straight contests and 27 of their last 30 games overall. Note that both of these teams are coming off an off day (two in the case of Toronto) and will also have the day off on Thursday. No reason for either to hold anything back in this one. Take the over (10*).

ACC Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Louisville and Pittsburgh at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

The first meeting between these two teams fizzled this season as Pittsburgh rolled to a 75-54 road win on January 18th. We're working with a lower posted total this time around and I believe it will prove too low. Louisville has shown some signs of life offensively of late, knocking down 25 or more field goals in three of its last four games. The Cardinals had their share of opportunities in that first meeting with Pitt but simply couldn't convert, making good on just 19 field goals. It's not as if Pitt is a defensive juggernaut. The Panthers have allowed 10 of their last 11 opponents to knock down at least 23 field goals. They were fortunate last time out that North Carolina had an off night shooting, as the Tar Heels actually got off a whopping 66 field goal attempts, but could only hit 23 of them. Here, I'm just not convinced we see a peak performance from the Pitt defense against an opponent it has already manhandled this season. On the flip side, the Panthers figure to take advantage of an awful Louisville defense that has seemingly gotten even looser lately, allowing three straight opponents to get off more than 60 FG attempts. Pitt enters this contest having made good on 28, 26 and 25 field goals over its last three games and has hoisted up 55 or more FG attempts in seven of its last eight overall. Take the over (10*).

Horizon League Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Wisconsin-Green Bay and Wisconsin-Milwaukee at 8 pm et on Monday.

The first meeting between these two in-state rivals totalled 148 points back in December. We're dealing with a considerably higher posted total this time around as a result, but I believe it's warranted. Green Bay enters this contest off four straight 'under' results. The Phoenix have shot poorly over that stretch - in fact, they've been held to fewer than 20 made field goals in four straight games, their longest such streak of the season. I do think the pace alone should get them over the hump here, however, noting that Wisconsin-Milwaukee ranks 17th in the country in adjusted tempo according to KenPom. The Panthers have allowed 16 consecutive opponents to knock down more than 20 field goals. Their last game snapped a stretch of nine straight contests in which they allowed 62 or more field goal attempts. Keep in mind, the pitiful Phoenix made good on 23 field goals and scored 67 points in the first meeting between these teams this season. The Panthers were fortunate to secure a 72-69 win over IUPUI last time out. They got off a whopping 69 FG attempts in that contest but could only hit 26 of them. I certainly anticipate them improving on that shooting percentage here, noting that Green Bay ranks a miserable 361st in the nation (that's third-to-last) in adjusted defensive efficiency (also according to KenPom). Take the over (10*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Duke and Miami at 7 pm et on Monday.

When these two teams last met on January 21st, they combined to score just 134 points. We're dealing with a lower posted total for this rematch and I believe it will prove too low. The pace was certainly there for a much higher-scoring affair in the first meeting. Duke got off 62 field goal attempts while Miami countered with 63. Both teams ended up shooting poorly with the Blue Devils knocking down 25 field goals and the Hurricanes making good on only 22 in a narrow two-point defeat. It's worth noting that Miami has been more efficient offensively while also playing at a slightly faster pace at home compared to on the road this season. The Canes enter this contest on an offensive tear having knocked down 31, 26, 35 and 26 field goals over their last four games, despite getting off 58 or fewer field goal attempts in three of those tilts. Duke has had little success (or interest) in slowing its opponents' pace lately, allowing 63 or more FG attempts in three of its last five games. Meanwhile, Miami's opponents have been afforded plenty of good looks, knocking down 25 or more field goals in an incredible 10 straight games. Take the over (8*).

Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Denver and Minnesota at 7:10 pm et on Sunday.

PLEASE NOTE: I released this play in the early morning hours when the total was in the high-230's. With the news of Jokic, Murray and Gordon possibly all sitting for the Nuggets, it has dropped considerably. I do still recommend the play at the current number, albeit with a lower confidence level.

We just missed with the 'under' in the Nuggets rout of the Hawks last night but I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play as Denver hits the road for a back-to-back spot at Minnesota on Sunday. Last night's game ended a streak of 11 straight games in which the Nuggets held opponents to fewer than 90 field goal attempts. The lopsided nature of that affair against Atlanta certainly contributed to Denver's relatively loose defensive play. 'Fat and happy' off three straight wins, scoring 122 or more points in all three contests, I'm not convinced we'll see a peak offensive performance from Denver again on Sunday. Minnesota will certainly be focused on tightening things up defensively after allowing Orlando to go off for 127 points in an 'upset' home loss on Friday. Prior to that contest, the Timberwolves had seen seven straight games stay 'under' the total and the 'under' remains 18-13 in their home games this season. Take the under (10*).

Non-Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Atlanta and Denver at 9:10 pm et on Saturday.

The Hawks are in a tough spot here, playing the second of back-to-backs and for the third time in the last four nights (in three different cities) as they continue their road trip in the high altitude of Denver on Saturday. Atlanta has been shooting the lights out, knocking down 44 or more field goals in five straight games. It also got off more than 90 field goal attempts in four of those five contests, however, a number I believe it will have a tough time approaching here. The Nuggets check in having held 11 straight opponents to fewer than 90 field goal attempts. They certainly haven't been at their best defensively during their current 3-0 'over' streak, allowing 46, 42 and 43 made field goals but again, I like the spot they catch the Hawks in here. While Atlanta is known for being extremely vulnerable defensively, the addition of Dejounte Murray has certainly helped its cause in that regard this season. The Hawks enter this contest having held eight of their last 11 opponents to fewer than 90 FG attempts. In the back half of their last six back-to-back situations, they've limited their foes to 89, 87, 83, 83, 86 and 83 FG attempts with the 'under' going 4-2 along the way (only one of those games went 'over' the total we're working with tonight). In the first meeting between these two teams this season both sides actually shot exceptionally well (Denver was 45-of-85 and Atlanta was 49-of-88) yet that game still totalled 'only' 226 points. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Syracuse and Boston College at 5 pm et on Saturday.

Both of these teams are coming off 'under' results earlier in the week. I expect a different story to unfold on Saturday as they do battle in a rematch of a New Year's Eve game that reached 144 total points. Syracuse enters this game shooting well, having knocked down 30, 28, 29, 31, 29, 23 and 24 field goals in its last seven games. The two outliers - coming in its last two contests - came in games where the Orange were held to fewer than 50 field goal attempts. I don't see this game being played at such a snail's pace, however. Note that the Orange have allowed six of their last seven opponents to get off at least 58 field goal attempts. Boston College yields an average of 59 FG attempts to its opponents here in Chestnut Hill this season. Syracuse isn't an awful defensive team by any means but you would have to go all the way back to December 10th (against an awful Georgetown team) to find the last time it held an opponent to fewer than 23 made field goals. Of the Orange's last seven opponents, six have knocked down at least 25 field goals. It's a similar story for Boston College. The Eagles were fortunate that Clemson couldn't hit its shots last time out, connecting on only 16-of-52 FG attempts in a 62-54 Boston College victory. Prior to that, the Eagles had allowed five of their last six opponents to make good on at least 26 field goals with three of those foes connecting on 30 or more. Offensively, the Eagles are anything but a juggernaut but they're playing some of their best basketball right now and I do think they can give Syracuse a run here and that should lend itself to a relatively high-scoring affair, given what I outlined regarding the Orange defense earlier. Take the over (8*).

ACC Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Wake Forest and Notre Dame at 1 pm et on Saturday.

Wake Forest has incredibly seen each of its last 12 games go 'over' the total and I expect that streak to last for at least one more game as the Demon Deacons head to South Bend to face the Irish on Saturday afternoon. Notre Dame has actually posted six consecutive 'over' results itself. The Irish check in ranked a miserable 287th in the country in adjusted defensive efficiency according to KenPom. Facing a Wake Forest squad that ranks 27th in the nation in adjusted offensive efficiency and 93rd in adjusted tempo, not to mention the fact it is coming off four straight losses, doesn't figure to help Notre Dame's cause here. The Irish don't play at a particularly fast pace, but I expect their hand to be forced on Saturday, likely playing from behind for a considerable portion of this contest as a home underdog. You would have to go back 10 games to find the last time Notre Dame limited an opponent to fewer than 25 made field goals. Meanwhile, Wake Forest has gotten off 60 or more field goal attempts in three of its last five contests. It simply didn't make the most of its scoring opportunities last time out against Duke, shooting a miserable 24-of-64 from the field (but still scoring 73 points). I expect it to snap right back here. The Irish have put up more than 70 points in four straight home games though and could be catching the Demon Deacons defense at the right time. In fact, Wake has been a completely different defensive team compared to the first month of the season, yielding 27 or more made field goals in 10 of its last 14 games. Take the over (10*).

Ivy League Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Cornell and Princeton at 7 pm et on Friday.

I've been waiting for this rematch since Cornell and Princeton combined to score 'only' 143 points in the first meeting of the season back on January 7th. We cashed one of our bigger plays of the season last year with the 'over' in a game between the Big Red and Tigers with that contest totalling 171 points almost a year to the day, on February 4th, 2022. I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play here. Note that the first meeting this season was played in Cornell's home gym. That's notable as Princeton plays considerably faster here at home, where it averages two more field goal attempts per game compared to its season average while also giving up three additional FG attempts per contest (also compared to its season average). Cornell figures to take advantage as it is quietly on an incredible shooting run, having knocked down 31, 30 and 32 field goals over its last three contests. Unfortunately, the Big Red have also been very forgiving defensively, yielding 30, 28, 32 and 27 made field goals over their last four games. Princeton got off 62 field goal attempts last time out against Harvard, but could only knock down 26 of them. I certainly expect it to bounce back in that regard here. Like Cornell, Princeton has struggled to contain opposing offenses, allowing 24, 28, 21, 34 and 35 made field goals over its last five contests. Take the over (10*).

Western Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Golden State and Denver at 9:10 pm et on Thursday.

There's little chance we see the likes of Klay Thompson, Steph Curry and Andrew Wiggins in this game and that leads to the total sitting in a very reasonable range. Remember, the last time the Warriors rested their stars, they still scored 120 points in an upset win over a good Cavs team in Cleveland earlier this month. There's a good chance we see the Nuggets offense absolutely go off in this one. Denver is in fine form offensively after knocking down 44 and 43 field goals over its last two games, scoring 119 and 122 points in the process. Keep in mind, those were relatively slow-paced affairs. Here, the Nuggets will face a Warriors squad that has allowed 101, 93 and 95 field goal attempts in regulation time over their last three games. Incredibly, nine straight Golden State opponents have knocked down at least 42 field goals in regulation time. You would have to go back 16 games, all the way to December 28th, to find the last time the Warriors held an opponent to fewer than 40 made field goals. As I mentioned, Golden State is likely to give a number of its key contributors the night off, probably not the worst thing after Thompson and Curry combined to shoot 11-for-34 in last night's overtime loss in Minnesota (we won with the Timberwolves in that game). That game did manage to stay 'under' the total, which is notable as the Warriors haven't posted consecutive 'under' results since a four-game streak from December 25th to 30th. Take the over (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between New Orleans and Milwaukee at 8:10 pm et on Sunday.

The Pelicans enter this game on the heels of four consecutive 'under' results, not to mention seven straight losses. Based on the way they're playing right now, I think it's tough for any of their games to get well into the 230's. Note that New Orleans has held five straight opponents to 88 or fewer field goal attempts. You would have to go back six games to find the last time one of its opponents knocked down more than 40 field goals as well. The Bucks shot the lights out against Indiana on Friday, not surprising as the Pacers are down bad with stopper Tyrese Haliburton out of the lineup. Milwaukee has gotten into the 90's in terms of field goal attempts three times in its last eight games. Two of those games came against the aforementioned Pacers and the other was against the Pistons. Here, I expect the Pelicans to offer more resistance at the very least. From an offensive standpoint, New Orleans has been held to fewer than 40 made field goals in four straight and six of its last seven games overall. They've gotten more than 90 field goal attempts only twice in their last nine contests and scored just 110 and 103 points in those two affairs. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is a perfect 8-0 with the Pelicans playing on the road off three or more consecutive losses over the last two seasons, leading to an average total of just 203.8 points in that situation. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Denver and Philadelphia at 3:10 pm et on Saturday.

The 76ers have been on an incredible run of 'over' results over the last month-plus but I'm not sure it's sustainable. Note that Philadelphia has now held five straight opponents to 87 or fewer field goal attempts. Last time out, the 76ers limited the Nets to only 76 field goal attempts but Brooklyn shot the lights out and the result was a game that totalled a ridiculous 270 points. Philadelphia is just one game removed from knocking down 49 field goals in a win over the defensively-challenged Kings in Sacramento. Apart from that, the Sixers have been held to 43 or fewer made field goals in six of their last seven games and 40 or less on three occasions over that stretch. The Nuggets have reeled off three straight 'under' results, most recently resting a number of starters in a tight game in Milwaukee. Denver has now held eight consecutive opponents to fewer than 90 field goal attempts. You would have to go back five games to find the last time the Nuggets allowed an opponent to knock down more than 40 field goals. On the flip side, Denver is suddenly laboring offensively, making good on just 36, 39 and 38 field goals over its last three contests. The Nuggets did hoist up 97 FG attempts in that loss in Milwaukee on Wednesday but that was largely due to the fact they were missing the production of Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, forcing them to push the pace in an effort to keep up with the Bucks. That marked the first time in nine games Denver had gotten off 90+ FG attempts. Take the under (8*).

Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Texas Tech and LSU at 2 pm et on Saturday.

We'll go the contrarian route with this play as LSU checks in off a deplorable 14-made field goal performance in a 60-40 loss to Arkansas last time out while Texas Tech reaches Baton Rouge off consecutive 'under' results. I wouldn't categorize either of these defenses as elite, or anything remotely close. Yet the Red Raiders have held their last two opponents to just 20 and 19 made field goals. Keep in mind, they still lost both of those games by double-digits, allowing 68 and 76 points against Kansas State and West Virginia, respectively. After facing a very difficult slate of opponents in SEC play, the Tigers will likely be happy to face a Big 12 opponent in Texas Tech on Saturday. While LSU's offense has been a big part of the problem lately, it has also allowed its last four opponents to knock down 35, 26, 29 and 23 field goals. The pace has been there but Texas Tech just hasn't been able to make its shots lately, noting that it is just one game removed from hoisting up a whopping 71 field goal attempts against Kansas State. Here, I do expect the Red Raiders to put it together offensively and help this one sail 'over' the reasonably low total. Finally, I'll note that these two teams produced 147 total points (with a closing total of 143.5) the last time they met in 2021. Take the over (10*).

My selection is on the 'over' between UCLA and USC at 9 pm et on Thursday.

The first meeting between these Los Angeles rivals resulted in a low-scoring 60-58 UCLA victory back on January 5th. I expect a higher-scoring affair in Thursday's rematch as we're dealing with a reasonably low total, largely due to the recent run of 'unders' both teams have been on. It's only a matter of time before the Bruins enjoy an offensive explosion in my opinion. I believe we might just see that 'slingshot' effect in this matchup on Thursday. Note that UCLA has gotten off 60 or more field goal attempts in three of its last four games. Here, it faces a vulnerable USC defense that has had little success (or interest) in slowing its opponents' pace, yielding 24 or more made field goals in four of its last six games and 58 or more field goal attempts in five straight contests. On the flip side, the Trojans can shoot. They've incredible knocked down 24 or more field goals in 11 straight games. The Bruins are one of the best defensive teams in the nation without question but here, against a revenge-minded Trojans squad, I expect them to have their hands full. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the ‘over’ between Cleveland and Houston at 8:10 pm et on Thursday.

The Rockets were involved in a relatively low-scoring game against the Wizards last night. Regardless whether Donovan Mitchell is able to go for the Cavaliers (he re-injured his groin on Tuesday in New York) I still expect Cleveland to go off offensively in this one. The Rockets were fortunate the Wizards couldn’t make the most of their scoring opportunities last night or the result would have been far more lopsided. Houston allowed a whopping 98 field goal attempts in that contest. The Rockets have allowed four of their last five opponents to get off 91 or more field goal attempts. Meanwhile, Cleveland has hoisted up 87 or fewer FG attempts in four straight games. In spite of that it has knocked down 40 or more field goals in each of those four contests. Defensively, the Cavs are terrific but they do face a Rockets squad that has made good on 42 or more field goals in four of its last five games. I do think we see Cleveland suffer a bit of a letdown defensively here after going against Memphis, Golden State, Milwaukee and New York in consecutive games. Take the over (8*).

ACC Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Louisville and Boston College at 9 pm et on Wednesday.

I like the way this one sets up as a higher-scoring affair than most are expecting on Wednesday night in Chestnut Hill. Louisville is of course mired in a down season having lost 17 of 19 games overall and eight in a row entering Wednesday's contest. We had actually seen a bit of a spark from the Cardinals offensively for a stretch prior to getting held down by a pair of tough opponents in North Carolina and Pittsburgh in their last two games. I'm confident we'll see them do enough to help this total along on Wednesday, however, noting that Boston College has allowed five of its last eight opponents to get off 60 or more field goal attempts with the opposition knocking down 26 or more field goals in three of its last four contests. Offensively, the Eagles have been quietly 'filling it up', making good on 28, 26, 32, 21, 26 and 29 field goals over their last six games. Even in the low-water mark of 21 over that stretch, the Eagles still scored 63 points in a game that totalled 148 points against Wake Forest. Last year's matchup between these two teams was a low-scoring one, reaching only 121 total points. We're dealing with a considerably lower posted total this time around, however, noting that last year's game saw a closing total of 138. Take the over (10*).

Non-Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Washington and Dallas at 8:40 pm et on Tuesday.

I think we see a 'slingshot' effect from the Mavericks offensively after they were held down by the Clippers last time out. In fact, Dallas is coming off consecutive low-scoring, slow-paced games against Miami and Los Angeles. I expect nothing of the sort here as the Mavs host the Wizards on Tuesday. Yes, Washington will be without Kristaps Porzingis and just dealt Rui Hachimura to the Lakers after he poured in 30 points last time out. I still anticipate the Wizards pushing the pace here, noting they've knocked down 42, 42 and 51 field goals over their last three games and have hoisted up 93 or more field goal attempts in three of their last four contests. On the flip side, Washington has had no success (or interest) in slowing its opponents' pace, allowing nine of its last 10 opponents to get off 90 or more field goal attempts. You would have to go back nine games to find the last time the Wiz held an opponent to fewer than 40 made field goals. While Dallas held up well defensively in its last two games, it is still sorely missing the presence of Christian Wood on the inside and the blowout nature of those last two contests likely contributed to keeping the pace down. Note that prior to those two contests, the Mavs had allowed 44, 49, 43 and 49 made field goals over their last four games. Here, we'll note that the 'over' is 22-11 with the Wizards coming off two wins in their last three games over the last two seasons, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the 'over' is 15-7 with Dallas coming off a loss this season, leading to an average total of 231.0 points in that situation. Take the over (10*).

Big 12 Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Kansas and Baylor at 9 pm et on Monday.

These two teams enjoyed far different results on Saturday as Kansas was embarrassed in a 23-point home loss against TCU while Baylor eked out a 62-60 road win over Oklahoma. Noting that the 'under' is a perfect 6-0 with Kansas coming off consecutive games in which it allowed 75 points or more over the last three seasons, as is the case here, leading to an average total of only 132.3 points, we'll confidently back the 'under' in a series that has generally been lower-scoring than most have expected over the years. Baylor got off to an 0-3 start in conference play, marked by a couple of high-scoring defeats at the hands of TCU and Kansas State, at home no less. Since then, we've seen the Bears lock in defensively, allowing 23, 23, 27 and 26 made field goals and no more than 60 field goal attempts over their last four games. For Kansas, it is in a clear bounce-back spot here after getting lit up for 31 made field goals against TCU on Saturday. Poor defensive efforts don't pop up often when it comes to the Bill Self-coached Jayhawks and I'm confident we'll see them respond positively in that department on Monday. Prior to Saturday's game, Kansas had held an incredible 15 of its first 18 opponents this season to 25 or fewer made field goals. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Washington State and Colorado at 6 pm et on Sunday.

Both of these teams are coming off 'over' results on Thursday, snapping a three-game 'under' streak for Washington State and a four-game run of 'unders' for Colorado. Here, I expect a return to normal, so to speak, with a relatively low-scoring affair between the Cougars and Buffaloes. Nothing went right for Washington State last time out as it couldn't generate any sustained offense, nor could it sniff out a stop against Utah (the Utes shot 31-of-56 from the field). I do expect the Cougars to bounce back here, particularly at the defensive end of the floor, where they had held their previous three opponents to 20, 19 and 22 made field goals. It's also worth noting they've limited four of their last five opponents to 56 field goal attempts or fewer. The only occasion where they didn't was largely game-script dependent as they had an up-tempo Arizona squad playing from behind most of the night in a stunning double-digit road victory. Colorado is coming off a poor defensive performance of its own as it allowed Washington to knock down 27-of-50 field goal attempts on Thursday. The Buffaloes made good on 28 field goals themselves, representing a high-water mark since hitting 30 field goals in a narrow loss at Cal on New Year's Eve. Prior to Thursday's poor performance, Colorado had held its last two Pac-12 opponents to just 14 and 18 made field goals and 41 and 42 points here on its home floor. Take the under (8*).

Pac-12 Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between UCLA and Arizona State at 10:30 pm et on Thursday.

The 'under' has cashed in each of UCLA's last seven games but I look for that streak to come to an end on Thursday as the Bruins hit the road for the first time since New Year's Day to face Arizona State in Tempe. UCLA absolutely manhandled Utah and Colorado in its last two games, holding those two opponents to just 18 and 15 made field goals, respectively. It faces a much different challenge on the road here, however, noting that Arizona State has knocked down 25, 31, 29, 33 and 24 field goals since the return of Pac-12 play on New Year's Eve. With that being said, the Sun Devils are in bounce-back mode here in some sense after getting off only 49 field goal attempts in a bit of a sloppy affair against Oregon State last time out (they still scored 74 points in that contest). We know Arizona State will be looking to push the pace here, noting that it has hoisted up 62 or more field goal attempts in seven of its last nine games. Defensively, the Sun Devils are likely to have their hands full here. They've allowed 27, 24, 25, and 24 made field goals over their last four games and have had little success (or interest) in slowing down their opponents' tempo this season. UCLA didn't shoot particularly well against Colorado last time out, knocking down only 38.1% of its attempts from the field. That's notable as the last two times it was held under 40% shooting in Pac-12 play, it responded by making good on exactly 29 field goals in its next contest. The Bruins are averaging 30 made field goals and 76.7 points per game this season with no considerable drop-off in production away from home, where they've hit 29 field goals per game (on one fewer attempt compared to their season average) while averaging 73.7 points per contest. The most recent meeting between these two teams totalled only 118 points last February, however prior to that each of the last 12 matchups in the series produced at least 143 total points. Take the over (10*).

Big 12 Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State at 9 pm et on Wednesday.

This is obviously a big game for both teams but it's desperation time for Oklahoma State as it comes off three consecutive Big 12 defeats. Of note for our purposes, the Cowboys have seen each of their last seven games go 'under' the total. Oklahoma State lacks a true go-to scorer and it shows as it has been held to 67, 67, 46, 57 and 58 points in Big 12 play. The Cowboys tried to push the pace in their last two games, getting off 66 and 60 field goal attempts but only managed to knock down 22 and 23 of those shots against Kansas State and Baylor, respectively. Here, they'll face a good Oklahoma defense that's coming off a bad game. The Sooners allowed West Virginia to make good on 31-of-55 field goals in their most recent contest, allowing 76 points in a narrow one-point victory. Note that prior to that, they had held four of their last five opponents to 22 or fewer made field goals. Oklahoma has one of the more underrated offensive players in the country in former Nevada standout Grant Sherfield. It will be in tough here, however, noting that Oklahoma State has allowed an average of just 20 made field goals per contest at home this season and has held eight of its last 11 opponents to 21 or fewer in that department. The fact that the Cowboys allowed 74 points last time out is notable as they've given up 56, 51 and 49 points on three previous occasions after allowing more than 70 points in a game this season. Take the under (10*).

Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Washington and New York at 7:40 pm et on Wednesday.

While both of these teams are coming off 'over' results on Monday, it's still been a bit of a grind offensively of late. Monday's game marked the first time in three contests the Wizards managed to knock down more than 38 field goals. Playing against the Warriors - a team that often plays at a break-neck pace - certainly helped their cause. All told, Washington has topped out at 42 field goals or less in six straight games, yet the 'over' has inexplicably gone 5-1 over that stretch. I do expect things to level out in that regard, at least in the short-term. The Knicks have knocked down 42 or fewer field goals in six consecutive games as well, and only got to that number thanks to overtime last time out against Toronto. New York has quietly been locked-in defensively, limiting seven of its last nine opponents to fewer than 40 made field goals. It held this same Washington squad to 36-of-92 shooting just last week. While last week's matchup did find its way 'over' the total, it didn't eclipse the number we're dealing with tonight (at the time of writing). It's worth noting that we haven't seen consecutive 'over' results in this series since back in 2018 - that goes back a whopping 17 matchups. Take the under (10*).

ACC Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Clemson and Wake Forest at 9 pm et on Tuesday.

I like the way this one sets up as a high-scoring affair between two red hot ACC squads in Clemson and Wake Forest on Tuesday night. The Tigers are fresh off a 72-64 victory over Duke on Saturday - their seventh straight victory. They've been the picture of consistency from an offensive standpoint, knocking down 25 or more field goals in six of their last seven games. While they've done a good job defensively as well, they've shown little ability (or interest) in slowing down their opponents' pace, allowing 63 or more field goal attempts in three of their last five games. That should open the door for a blazing hot Wake Forest offense that has made good on 28, 29, 30 and 34 field goals over its last four contests. You would have to go back seven games to find the last time the Demon Deacons were held to fewer than 77 points. Like Clemson, Wake hasn't put much of a priority on slowing the opposition, yielding an average of 61 field goal attempts per game here at home this season. Prior to Saturday's blowout win over struggling Boston College (in which it allowed just 22 made field goals), Wake had allowed eight straight opponents to knock down 26 or more field goals. Of course, this will be a rematch of a meeting between these two teams back in December. That was a strange affair as Clemson got off only 43 field goal attempts, making good on 22 of them, yet scored 77 points in a 20-point rout. Wake has rounded into form since then and I'm confident we'll see a much more competitive, entertaining affair this time around. Take the over (10*).

Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Brooklyn and San Antonio at 8:10 pm et on Tuesday.

This Nets team is just not the same without Kevin Durant on the floor. I realize that's a major understatement and fairly obvious to even the most casual NBA observer. But it's worth noting as we work with a total in the mid-230's with the Nets having just come off a winless two-game homestand that saw them struggle mightily from an offensive standpoint, knocking down just 38 and 39 field goals while scoring 98 and 102 points. The Spurs are of course one of, not the league's worst defensive team. With that being said, I do think they're better than they've shown in their last three games, allowing 135, 144 and 132 points against three teams that love to push the pace in the Grizzlies, Warriors and Kings over that stretch. While the Nets offense has regressed without Durant, their defense has held strong, limiting four straight opponents to 41 or fewer made field goals heading into this contest. In fact, the 'under' has cashed in each of their last five games. When these teams last met in Brooklyn on January 2nd, it was no contest as the Nets rolled to a 139-103 victory. Keep in mind, Kevin Durant paced Brooklyn's offense on that night, recording a double-double with 25 points and 11 assists. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is 130-106 with the Spurs playing at home off consecutive ATS losses under head coach Gregg Popovich. Interestingly, the 'under' is 26-12 with Nets head coach Jacque Vaughn's teams playing on the road after losing four or five of their last six games ATS as well. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Princeton and Pennsylvania at 7 pm et on Monday.

I like the bounce-back spot for both of these teams defensively after both were involved in 'over' results on Saturday. Princeton inexplicably allowed a middle-of-the-road Brown squad to knock down 28-of-53 field goal attempts in a 72-70 loss. That marked the first time in five games the Tigers allowed an opponent to shoot better than 42.1% from the field. Penn dropped a 75-71 decision at Dartmouth, allowing the Big Green to shoot 27-of-58 from the field. While the Quakers have knocked down 26 or more field goals in four straight games, they've also faced a fairly favorable schedule over that stretch, favored in three of those games with the other coming against the fastest-paced team in the Ivy League, Cornell. I think we're in for a tightly-contested, relatively low-scoring affair here, noting that the most recent meeting produced 163 points in a Princeton blowout win last March, but we haven't seen consecutive meetings in this series go 'over' the total since three straight did back in 2017-18. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Indiana and Milwaukee at 2:40 pm et on Monday.

The Bucks have seen the 'under' cash in four straight games entering Monday's matinee affair against the down-trodden Pacers in Milwaukee. The wheels came off for Indiana defensively in Saturday's 130-112 home loss against the Grizzlies. Tyrese Haliburton is of course sidelined indefinitely for the Pacers and that hurts them defensively more than anything else. Indiana has zero answers for the Grizzlies offense on Saturday and will be hard-pressed to bounce back in this tough road matchup against a Bucks team fresh off a two-game sweep at the hands of the Heat in Miami (with Giannis Antetokounmpo set to return from a two-game absence on Monday). We know the Pacers will continue to force the issue offensively, noting they've hoisted up 101 and 103 field goal attempts in their last two games. The Bucks have done little to slow opposing up-tempo offenses this season, entering Monday's contest having yielded 92 or more field goal attempts to eight of their last 10 opponents. Milwaukee has proven to be a much stronger offensive team at home compared to on the road this season, averaging 43-of-90 shooting and just north of 117 points per game on its home floor, with the 'over' cashing at a 14-7 clip. Here, we'll note that the 'over' is 20-8 with the Pacers coming off a loss by 15 or more points over the last three seasons, resulting in an average total of 235.5 points in that spot. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Utah and USC at 10:30 pm et on Saturday.

I expect this game to be played at a snail's pace as Utah looks to 'ugly it up' in an effort to come away with something from this two-game road trip to Los Angeles. The Utes couldn't muster any sort of offense against the mighty Bruins of UCLA last time out and will be hard-pressed to do much better against another terrific defensive squad in USC on Saturday. The good news is, the Utes can play some defense (they rank 19th in the country in adjusted defensive efficiency according to KenPom) - something we didn't necessarily see from them in the loss to UCLA. I expect Utah to step up defensively against a more manageable offensive opponent here and ultimately help keep this one 'under' the lofty total. Take the under (8*).

Missouri Valley Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Bradley and Drake at 8 pm et on Saturday.

This isn't the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament and as such I think we'll see a much looser, up-tempo game between these two conference powerhouses than what you would expect to see in March. We're talking about two of the best offensive teams in the MVC on paper. Bradley has certainly showed it over its last two games, scoring 88 and 91 points in wins over Valpo and Evansville. While the level of competition steps up here, I like the consistency Bradley has shown at the offensive end of the floor, making good on 27 or more field goals in six of its last seven games. Drake comes off of a pair of exceptional offensive performances as well, scoring 82 and 76 points in wins over Murray State and Illinois-Chicago. The most recent meeting between these two teams last February was a low-scoring affair but of note, we haven't seen consecutive 'under' results between these two teams since back in 2018-19. Take the over (10*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Air Force and Fresno State at 7 pm et on Saturday.

I simply feel this total will prove too low given the improvement Air Force has shown offensively, combined with the porous nature of both defenses. The Falcons have quietly been lighting it up, knocking down 24 or more field goals in seven of their last eight games. They hung 85 points on the board in a double-digit win over Colorado State last time out. Meanwhile, Fresno State has been getting absolutely torched defensively, allowing 27, 29 and 31 made field goals over its last three games. However, the line dictates a close affair in favor of the hometown Bulldogs here and that's reasonable when you consider Air Force has yielded more than 70 points in four straight games, allowing six straight opponents to knock down at least 23 field goals. I think we're in for a much higher-scoring game than most expect here. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Virginia and Florida State at 4 pm et on Saturday.

I don't think this is going to be the defensive slugfest that most are expecting in Tallahassee on Saturday afternoon. Virginia has been a bit different than we've come to expect this season, riding its offense a little more on the way to a 12-3 overall record. The Cavaliers enter this game having gotten into the 60's or 70's in terms of scoring in seven straight games. Florida State is in the middle of a tough campaign but has certainly played better basketball lately. The Seminoles check in having scored 73 or more points in six of their last seven contests. Florida State does continue to struggle defensively, however, yielding 28 or more made field goals in four of its last five games. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Troy and Appalachian State at 4 pm et on Saturday.

I think we're in for a barn-burner between these two teams on Saturday afternoon and that should lend itself to a relatively high-scoring affair. Both teams average in the mid-20's in terms of three-point attempts per game. There's certainly a wide range of outcomes in this contest given Troy's defensive ability and the pace that Appalachian State plays at but I believe the most likely one is a game where both teams approach or eclipse the 70-point mark. We're being given a relatively low total to work with largely due to the fact that the Trojans come in off consecutive low-scoring 'under' results. That of course has little bearing on today's matchup in particular. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Penn and Dartmouth at 2 pm et on Saturday.

A little too much respect being given to the Penn offense here. Dartmouth plays at a fast pace but doesn't shoot particularly well and is in line for some regression on Saturday. We've seen some high-scoring matchups between these two teams in recent years, but I don't think this will be one of them. Note that the last two meetings have seen totals posted in the 130's. I believe this number will prove too high as Penn ultimately stretches out the margin and takes the air out of the basketball in the second half. Take the under (8*).

Big Ten Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Wisconsin and Indiana at 1 pm et on Saturday.

The 'over' has cashed in each of Wisconsin's last two games while Indiana has seen all three of its Big Ten contests sail 'over' the total, allowing 91, 84 and 85 points in the process. While the Badgers aren't exactly known for their offensive prowess, I do think they find the going much easier against the Hoosiers non-existent defense after facing Illinois and Michigan State in their last two games. On the flip side, it's desperation time for Indiana and at home in what is a stand-alone Big Ten matchup on Saturday afternoon, I do think we see it come to play. The Hoosiers offense hasn't necessarily been the problem, even if it is coming off a poor showing against Penn State last time out. Prior to that, Indiana had put up 89 and 83 points against Iowa and Northwestern, respectively. I think we see both teams approach or eclipse the 70-point mark in this one. Take the over (10*).

Eastern Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Detroit and Philadelphia at 7:10 pm et on Tuesday.

These two teams were just involved in a relatively high-scoring affair two nights ago as the 76ers rolled to a 123-111 win in Detroit. That's been the norm for the Sixers lately as they enter this game riding a four-game 'over' streak (which matches a season-high). With both teams playing their fifth game in five nights, I believe both would prefer a slower-paced affair in Tuesday's rematch. The Pistons quietly shot the lights out in Sunday's contest, knocking down 44-of-87 field goal attempts. I don't anticipate a repeat performance with the scene shifting to Philadelphia, noting the 76ers are allowing just 40 made field goals per game on average at home this season. In a similar vein, the Pistons are making good on just 39 field goals per contest on the road this season. Philadelphia knocked down 46-of-94 field goal attempts on Sunday. The 76ers have been pushing the pace lately, getting off 98, 92 and 94 FG attempts in their last three games. I just don't see that being a sustainable trend, noting that Philadelphia averages just 85 FG attempts per contest this season, with that number rising only slightly to 86 here at home. Take the under (10*).

Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between VCU and Loyola-Chicago at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

VCU enters this showdown off three consecutive 'over' results while Loyola-Chicago has seen each of its last four contests go 'over' the total. I look for a reversal of those trends on Tuesday, however. Neither team has faced all that difficult of a schedule this season according to KenPom - both teams rank well north of 200th in the country in that department. VCU is knocking down an average of 23 field goals per game with that number dropping to 21 away from home. While Loyola-Chicago has made good on an impressive 29 field goals per contest here at home, that's had everything to do with the slate of opponents it has faced. The Ramblers have hosted Fairleigh-Dickinson, Central Arkansas, Depaul, Wisconsin-Green Bay, Albany and George Washington to date. You could certainly argue this will be their toughest defensive test to date on their home floor. Take the under (10*).

Ivy League Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Dartmouth and Yale at 7 pm et on Friday.

I like the way this one sets up as a higher-scoring affair than most are expecting on Friday night. Dartmouth limps into this game on the heels of six consecutive losses, not to mention six straight 'under' results. The Big Green have done little to slow the pace of the opposition, allowing an average of 61 field goal attempts per game on the season. That spells trouble as Yale likes to push the pace, having hoisted up 60 or more FG attempts in six of its last eight games and gets a chance to show out here at home for the first time since November 30th (each of its last six games were played on the road). The Bulldogs check in off consecutive 'under' results. Note that both teams present a bit of a 'shock to the system' for the opposing defenses in this one as Dartmouth gets off an average of 26 three-point attempts per game while Yale hoists up 24 shots from beyond the arc per contest, with both teams having faced an average of only 19 attempts per game in that department. Last year's matchup between these two teams on Yale's home floor totalled 141 points, despite the two teams getting off just 53 (Dartmouth) and 50 (Yale) FG attempts. You would have to go back 10 meetings here at Yale - all the way to 2012 - to find the last time these two teams combined to score fewer than 130 points in a game against one another. Take the over (10*).

Non-Division Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Toronto and Indiana at 7:10 pm et on Monday.

The Pacers enter this game on the heels of three consecutive 'over' results - their longest such streak of the season to date. I don't believe tonight's opponent, the Toronto Raptors, will have any interest in getting involved in a track meet, noting that Indiana has shot the lights out over its last three games, putting up 129, 135 and 131 points in reeling off three straight victories. The first meeting between these two teams totalled just 222 points back in November. Toronto dropped that game by double-digits, pushing the pace to its own detriment, shooting just 37-of-94 from the field. After snapping its two-game skid with defense last time out (Toronto limited Phoenix to 35-of-71 shooting), I'm expecting the Raps be selective at the offensive end of the floor, noting that they've hoisted up 84 or fewer field goal attempts in three of their last four games. Having held the opposition to just 81 FG attempts on average on the road this season, Toronto's gameplan is fairly clear at this point. As I mentioned, the Pacers have been shooting the lights out. The pace hasn't necessarily been there for such high-scoring results though, noting that they've gotten off 88 or fewer FG attempts in four of their last five contests. Given we've seen point totals of 218, 191, 211, 222 and 222 in five meetings between these two teams going back to the start of last season, I believe tonight's total will once again prove too high. Take the under (10*).

Central Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Cleveland and Chicago at 7:10 pm et on Saturday.

I really like the way this one sets up as a lower-scoring game than most are expecting on Saturday. The Cavs have seen each of their last five games go 'over' the total while the Bulls enter riding a four-game 'over' streak. Note that both teams shot the lights out in their most recent game with Cleveland knocking down 50-of-96 field goal attempts and Chicago hitting 53-of-92. I'm certainly not anticipating a repeat performance from either team on Saturday. Despite its recent 'over' streak, Cleveland has held four straight opponents to 85 or fewer field goal attempts. It has allowed the opposition to knock down an average of only 39 field goals per contest on the road this season. Chicago yielded just 86 FG attempts in last night's double-digit win over the Pistons. It has now held five of its last six opponents to a reasonable 43 or fewer made field goals. The only previous matchup between these two teams this season reached 224 total points but it got there thanks to the Cavs exploding for 128. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Duquesne and Dayton at 7 pm et on Wednesday.

I think Dayton is in for a bit of a 'shock to the system' here after holding Wyoming and Alcorn State to fewer than 50 points in consecutive games. Duquesne has displayed a solid floor when it comes to point totals this season, scoring 66 points or more in 11 of 13 games to date. With both teams having faced similar schedules in terms of difficulty according to KenPom, you could argue that Duquesne has been the better offensive team. Defensively, the Dukes leave a lot to be desired, however, allowing three more made field goals on one less field goal attempt per game compared to the Flyers. Dayton is favored by nearly double-digits for a reason here but I do think Duquesne can at least bait it into a relatively high-scoring affair. Take the over (8*).

Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Jacksonville and Notre Dame at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

We won with Jacksonville in its most recent game but I think it's in for a bit of a 'shock to the system' here as it travels to face Notre Dame which is in a 'sling-shot' situation after a tough three-game stretch that saw it face Marquette, Georgia and Florida State. With that being said, I don't think we see the Irish run away and hide in this one. Note that Jacksonville has impressively gone 7-3 despite facing the 32nd toughest schedule in the nation according to KenPom. The Irish are actually allowing five more made field goals on only two additional shot attempts per game this season in comparison with the Dolphins. The two teams are virtually mirror images of one another offensive, from a statistical standpoint at least, in the early going this season. I expect both to find some success here and we're dealing with a reasonably low total. Take the over (10*).

My selection is on the first half 'over' between Milwaukee and Boston at 5:10 pm et on Sunday.

I see this as a potential blow-up spot for the Celtics offense against a Bucks defense that has struggled to find its way in the early going this season. Milwaukee checks in having allowed more than 90 field goal attempts in five of its last seven games overall. Meanwhile, the Celtics have gotten off an incredible 100 or more field goal attempts in four of their last eight contests. The C's certainly looked in-sync on Friday as they knocked down 44 field goals and scored 121 points in a double-digit win over Minnesota. Defensively, the C's have allowed six of their last seven opponents to knock down 42 or more field goals. My concern here is that we see a lopsided contest and one side or the other takes the air out of the basketball in the second half, so we'll play the first half 'over' the total only. Take the first half over (10*).

Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Indiana and Miami at 8:10 pm et on Friday.

The Pacers scored 117 points in an upset victory in Boston last time out but needed a whopping 98 field goal attempts to get there. It's highly unlikely they come close to approaching that level of production here as Miami has held five of its last seven opponents to 80 or fewer field goal attempts, including these same Pacers back on December 12th, in a game that totalled just 169 points. For their own part, the Heat aren't scoring with much consistency right now, knocking down 40 or more field goals just once in their last six contests. The Pacers have quietly held the opposition in check lately, yielding just 38, 39 and 39 made field goals over their last three games. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Bellarmine and Evansville at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

I simply feel this total will prove too low as these two teams look to bounce back from losses suffered last time out. Bellarmine has faced one of the toughest schedules in the nation this season - 10th most difficult according to KenPom - yet still checks in a respectable 105th in the country in offensive rating. I expect it to bring a barrage of threes against a vulnerable Evansville defense here (the Purple Aces rank 276th in the nation in terms of defensive rating). Bellarmine has played at a slow pace so far this season but that's had a lot to do with the level of competition they have gone against. The Purple Aces are a short underdog for a reason here, but do have something to build on after scoring 72 and 69 points, knocking down 18 threes along the way, in their last two games. I do think they can at least keep pace here and that should lend itself to a relatively high-scoring affair as they look to go into the holiday break (they won't play again until the 29th) on a positive note. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Memphis and Denver at 10:10 pm et on Tuesday.

A letdown was certainly to be expected from the Grizzlies last time out as they went into Oklahoma City after scoring 128 and 142 points in home wins over the Hawks and Bucks, what turned out to be the tail-end of a seven-game winning streak. While the Grizz still got off 90 field goal attempts in the loss to the Thunder, they made good on just 34 of those shots. Here, they do draw another forgiving defensive team in Denver, noting that the Nuggets have allowed 41 or more made field goals in six of their last eight games and more than 90 field goal attempts in four of their last five contests. Denver had rattled off eight straight games shooting better than 50% from the field before slowing down in its last two contests. I expect it to get right back on track here, noting that Memphis has allowed five straight opponents to hoist up 90 or more FG attempts and gives up an average of 42 made field goals per game away from home this season. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between New York and Chicago at 8:10 pm et on Friday.

We missed with the 'under' in this same matchup in Chicago two nights ago. While that contest reached a whopping 248 total points, it was aided by overtime, not to mention both teams shooting the lights out. I expect a different story to unfold in Friday's quick rematch. Note that the 'under' is 18-5 with the Bulls coming off five or six losses in their last seven games over the last two seasons, as is the case here, resulting in an average total of only 215.2 points in that spot. The Bulls have also seen the 'under' cash at an 18-8 clip when coming off consecutive defeats over the same stretch, leading to an average total of 222.7 points, still comfortably below the number we're dealing with tonight (at the time of writing). It's not as if this has been a particularly high-scoring series. Of last season's four meetings, three totalled 213 points or less. Wednesday's 'over' result snapped a six-game 'under' streak for the Knicks and their road games have still totalled an average of just 224.7 points this season. Meanwhile, the Bulls have seen their home games total an average of 225.8 points. I simply feel this total has been set too high as a result of Wednesday's track meet. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Brooklyn and Toronto at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

Having lost three games in a row and after allowing 124 points against the Kings two nights ago, I can't help but feel the Raptors main focus will be on tightening things up defensively ahead of this clash with the Nets on Friday. Offensively, Toronto did put up 123 points against Sacramento, but it needed 94 field goal attempts (knocking down 50% of those) to get there. Here, we'll note that the Nets have seen the 'under' go 33-16 when the total has been set between 220 and 229.5 over the last two seasons, resulting in an average total of 222.3 points. Meanwhile, the Raptors have posted a 3-13 o/u mark when playing at home after losing four or five of their last six games ATS over the same stretch, leading to an average total of only 209.2 points in that situation. None of the three previous meetings between these division rivals this season have sniffed out tonight's posted total, reaching just 214, 210 and 219 total points. Take the under (8*).

Southeast Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Atlanta and Charlotte at 7:10 pm et on Friday.

I like the way this one sets up as a lower-scoring affair than most are expecting on Friday night in Charlotte. The Hawks have gotten drilled in the first two games of their current road trip, allowing 128 and 135 points in lopsided defeats in Memphis and Orlando. You have to imagine they'll be looking to button things up defensively in this one, noting that they've actually allowed 120 points or more in four straight games heading in. The good news is, they've allowed just 91 and 116 points in their last two trips to Charlotte going back to last season with neither of those contests coming close to approaching the lofty total we're dealing with tonight. Charlotte is reeling as well having lost six consecutive games. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is 26-13 with the Hornets playing at home off a loss over the last three seasons, 13-3 when playing at home off two straight losses over the last two seasons and 9-1 when at home following three consecutive defeats over the same stretch. Perhaps better still, the 'under' is 15-5 with Charlotte playing at home after losing four or five of its last six games ATS over the last three seasons, leading to an average total of only 214.5 points in that spot - a full 20 points below the total we're working with tonight. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between New York and Chicago at 7:40 pm et on Wednesday.

I like the way this one sets up as a lower-scoring affair than most are anticipating with the Bulls coming off consecutive high-scoring contests. In stark contrast, the Knicks have seen each of their last six games stay 'under' the total. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is 31-17 with New York playing on the road off an ATS win over the last three seasons, resulting in an average total of only 208.4 points. As for the Bulls, they've seen the 'under' go 23-10 after losing four or five of their last six games over the last two seasons, leading to an average total of 218.9 points in that spot. This season, Chicago has posted a 3-11 o/u mark when coming off a loss, with an average total of 221.1 points scored in that situation. Take the under (8*).

Northwest Division Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Minnesota and Portland at 10:10 pm et on Monday.

These two teams combined to score 242 points in the front half of this two-game set in Portland on Saturday. The pace wasn't necessarily there for such a high-scoring result, however, with both teams getting off just 83 field goal attempts. Both the Wolves and Blazers shot the lights out in that contest but I expect to see some adjustments made and better defense played in Monday's rematch. Keep in mind, these two teams met four times last season and we didn't see the 'over' hit in consecutive meetings on any occasion. Note that the 'under' has gone 16-10 with the Wolves coming off a loss by six points or less over the last three seasons and has cashed three out of four times it has followed four consecutive games shooting 47% or better from the field over the same stretch. Meanwhile, the 'under' is 17-10 with the Blazers playing at home with a total of 230 points or higher over the last three seasons and 5-1 when coming off a win by six points or less this season. We've seen Portland post consecutive 'over' results on only three previous occasions this season and all three times its next contest stayed 'under' the total. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Creighton and Arizona State at 9 pm et on Monday.

These two teams were involved in a low-scoring slugfest last year as Arizona State pulled off a stunner by a score of 58-57. I expect nothing of the sort in terms of pace here, noting that the high-flying Blue Jays were limited to only 54 field goal attempts in that defeat last year. Their low-water mark in that department this season is 53 but that came in a game where they scored 90 points in a win over Arkansas. I think the question here is whether the Sun Devils can get theirs offensively and I'm confident they can given the way Creighton's opponents have been stuffing the boxscore. The Blue Jays check in having yielded 30 or more made field goals in four of their last five games. Creighton is certainly in line for some positive regression offensively here. After knocking down 31+ field goals in four of its first six games this season it has been held to 27 or fewer made field goals in four straight contests. While Arizona State has been locked in defensively, I think it's in for a 'shock to the system' here against Creighton's shooting barrage. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Washington and Gonzaga at 9 pm et on Friday.

Off a stretch that saw it face Purdue, Xavier and Baylor in succession perhaps Gonzaga can be excused for an less-than-inspiring performance against Kent State last time out. Off consecutive 'under' results, I'm anticipating a much stronger offensive showing from the Bulldogs on Friday. Washington's opponents have shot a woeful 39.3% from the field this season. Some of that has to do with strong defensive play from the Huskies but part of it is simply related to luck. With that said, Washington has still allowed five of its last seven opponents to make good on 24 or more field goals. The Huskies have shown no ability, or interest to dictate their opponents' pace and I'm confident Gonzaga can take full advantage of that on Friday. For their part, the Bulldogs allowed 64 and 66 points in their last two games, despite those two opponents shooting sub-40% from the field. While Washington's offensive ceiling isn't all that high, its floor is at a solid level, noting that the Huskies have made good on 25 or more field goals in five of their last eight contests, held to a low-water mark of 62 points on the season. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Colorado State and Colorado at 9 pm et on Thursday.

Colorado has faced the 25th toughest schedule in the nation this season according to KenPom and while this matchup with Colorado State looks daunting when you consider the Rams have scored 80+ points in three straight and five of nine games this season, it's important to note that CSU has faced a cupcake schedule (311th toughest in the nation according to KenPom) and is certainly in line for some regression from the field having shot just shy of 50% on the campaign. Colorado has actually allowed just two more made field goals per game (25) compared to Colorado State this season. The Buffaloes have had to play keep-up much of the way, knocking down 26 field goals per contest (that's two fewer than CSU on average, on four more attempts per game). Both of these teams have seen the opposition make good on better than 70% of their free throw attempts - not a sustainable average in my opinion. This has generally been a series played in the 120's and 130's, although the two teams haven't met since the 2019-20 season. I believe this total will prove too high on Thursday. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Brown and Rhode Island at 7 pm et on Wednesday.

Brown should have Rhode Island's undivided attention for this game as the Bears come off four straight wins, shooting 52% or better from the field in their last two contests. Keep in mind, the Rams are coming off an 88-74 loss to Providence in which the Friars shot a blistering 54% from the field. There have essentially been three games where Rhode Island's opponents have shot the lights out this season, that most recent affair against Providence being one of them. Apart from that, the Rams have been tough defensively and I do think this is a matchup they can handle. Both teams sit around the middle of the pack in terms of tempo with Rhode Island checking in 184th and Brown just behind at 187th. Playing at home, I do think we see the Rams dictate the pace here and they certainly won't want to let Brown get out and run after getting boat-raced by Providence last time out (the Friars got off 63 field goal attempts in that game - only the second time Rhode Island allowed an opponent to hoist up more than 56 FG attempts this season). Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Indiana and Golden State at 10:10 pm et on Monday.

These two teams enter Monday's game trending in opposite directions with the Pacers having lost three games in a row both SU and ATS and the Warriors coming off consecutive victories and five wins in their last six contests, also both SU and ATS. Both teams come off 'under' results last time out, and we're starting to see this astronomical total come down a bit. I don't believe the move is warranted. The Pacers check in having knocked down 40+ field goals in four straight games. They're certainly getting their opportunities, hoisting up 94, 105, 100, 92 and 91 field goal attempts over their last five games. The problem is, their defense has been non-existent, allowing six of their last seven opponents to knock down 42 or more field goals. Teams are bullying them around and that's not likely to change against the red hot Warriors on Monday. Golden State is rolling right now, making good on 42+ field goals in six consecutive games. On the flip side, it hasn't shown much interest in slowing down the opposition, yielding 90+ field goal attempts in six of its last eight contests. Expect a track meet on Monday in San Francisco. Take the over (8*).

Southwest Division Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between New Orleans and San Antonio at 8:10 pm et on Friday.

When these two teams met last week they combined to score 239 points as, you guessed it, the Spurs lost and failed to cover, currently mired in a seven-game ATS losing streak. You would have to go back three games to find the last time a San Antonio game stayed 'under' the total while the Pelicans check in off an 'over' result themselves and have played to the 'under' just once in their last four contests. I'll go the contrarian route here, however, noting that we're dealing with a higher posted total than we saw when these teams met on November 23rd. Prior to their last game on Wednesday in Oklahoma City, the Spurs had been doing a good job of at least limiting their opponents scoring opportunities, allowing 85 or fewer field goal attempts in seven straight contests. That changed on Wednesday as they yielded 94 FG attempts in the Thunder's come-from-behind victory. I'll chalk that up as a 'game-script' related performance as the Thunder pushed the pace due to the fact they were trailing most of the way. Here, the Pelicans should be able to control proceedings and we'll note that they check in having hoisted up 87 or fewer FG attempts in four straight and six of their last seven games overall. San Antonio's last two opponents have 'shot the lights out' as I like to say, but that actually sets the 'under' up well here, noting that the 'under' has gone 19-8 the last 27 times the Spurs previous two opponents shot 50% or better from the field, resulting in an average total of 221.7 points in that situation. The Pelicans also saw their most recent opponent shoot well, with the Raptors knocking down just shy of 48% of their FG attempts against them on Wednesday. Keep in mind, New Orleans is just one game removed from limiting the Thunder to 34-of-92 (37%) shooting in a game that totalled 'only' 206 points. Finally, I'll note that the Pelicans will be without Brandon Ingram again on Friday as he deals with a toe injury. He contributed 17 points and added 10 assists the last time these two teams met. Meanwhile, the Spurs are dealing with a number of key injuries. Of note, Doug McDermott, currently listed as questionable to play on Friday, poured in 21 points when these two teams matched up last week. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Campbell and East Carolina at 7 pm et on Friday.

East Carolina checks into this game off back-to-back losses, held under 70 points in both contests after opening the season by scoring 75+ points in six straight games. Pirates opponents have been 'filling it up' so far this season, with six of eight foes having made good on 26 or more field goals, six of eight opponents have also scored more than 70 points. We will give the Pirates due respect in this bounce-back spot, however, confident that they can at least keep up with the Campbell Tigers in the role of short home favorite. Campbell successfully rebounded from its worst offensive showing of the season by exploding for 87 points last time out against Stetson. While Stetson's break-neck pace had a lot to do with that high-scoring result, it's not as if East Carolina will be looking to slow it down either. The problem is, the Tigers have been ultra-efficient offensively, knocking down the same number of field goals per game (24) as ECU despite six fewer attempts while making good on just one less three-pointer per contest, also on eight fewer attempts. Both of these teams get to the free throw line with consistency as Campbell averages 22 FT attempts per contest and ECU checks in averaging 23. The last time these two squads met in 2019 they combined to score 146 points. While the personnel has obviously changed, I'm anticipating a similar result here. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Atlanta and Orlando at 7:10 pm et on Wednesday.

With both of these teams playing at a reasonably slow pace lately and neither shooting particularly well, I believe this total will prove too high on Wednesday. Atlanta has gotten off just 82, 88 and 74 field goal attempts over its last three contests, knocking down fewer than 40 field goals in all three. The good news is, the Hawks have been limiting their opponents' scoring opportunities as well, holding nine of their last 10 foes to fewer than 90 field goal attempts. It's a similar story for Orlando. It has gotten off 80 or fewer FG attempts in three straight games. You would have to go back seven contests to find the last time the Magic knocked down 40 or more field goals. Meanwhile, they've held three straight opponents to 82 or fewer FG attempts, including the red hot Nets in a 109-102 loss on Monday. Brooklyn actually shot the lights out in that contest (44 made field goals) yet still scored 'only' 109 points in a game that stayed comfortably 'under' the total. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Los Angeles and Portland at 10 pm et on Tuesday.

I understand the logic behind this total shifting downward but that doesn't mean I agree with it. The Clippers haven't been the same dominant force defensively this season, and certainly not of late as two of their last three opponents have gotten off 94 or more field goal attempts with three of their last four foes knocking down 40+ field goals. In fact, 12 of Los Angeles' last 14 opponents have scored 100+ points. The Blazers have been held to 97 points or less in two of their last three games but should rebound at home, where they're averaging north of 114 points per game on 40 made field goals per contest. Defensively, Portland has allowed eight consecutive opponents to knock down 40+ field goals. In general, the Blazers play at a faster pace here at the Moda Center, averaging 85 FG attempts per game compared to their season average of 83 while yielding 88 FG attempts per contest to opponents compared to their season average of 86. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Washington and Miami at 8:10 pm et on Friday.

This is the second instalment of a two-game set between these two teams in Miami after the Heat prevailed by a 113-105 score on Wednesday. That 'over' result has led to an adjustment to the total here, and I believe it's moving in the wrong direction. Washington continues to defend well, holding three straight and 11 of its 18 opponents to fewer than 40 made field goals this season. It has also been efficient offensively for the most part, although it needed to shoot better than 47% from the field to get to 42 made field goals and only 105 points in this same matchup two nights ago. The Wiz are averaging only 87 field goal attempts per game on the road this season while the Heat have held the opposition to 86 FG attempts per contest here at home. Miami has knocked down fewer than 40 field goals in six straight games including 35 and 39 in two games against Washington (the first of which was aided by overtime). It matched a season-high with 93 FG attempts in regulation time last time out yet still scored 'only' 113 points on 39 made field goals. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between New Orleans and Memphis at 8:10 pm et on Friday.

I like the set-up for this play as the first meeting between these two teams was lower-scoring than expected and the Grizzlies have actually seen the 'under' cash in three of their last five games overall, despite playing at a reasonably fast pace. Memphis has hoisted up more than 90 field goal attempts in five straight games entering Friday's contest. It has also made good on more than 40 field goals in consecutive games heading in, but comes off a loss to the Kings last time out. New Orleans has proven vulnerable defensively, allowing three of its last four opponents to knock down 41+ field goals. However, its offense has more than made up for it, making good on 42+ field goals in six straight contests and 49 and 47 over its last two games. Expect plenty of fireworks in this one. Take the over (8*).

NBA Non-Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Detroit and Denver at 9:10 pm et on Tuesday.

Detroit enters this contest off consecutive high-scoring 'over' results against the Lakers and Kings after the first game on its current road trip totalled just 187 points. Here, I'm anticipating a lower-scoring affair than most are expecting as the Pistons continue their road trip in Denver. The Nuggets are of course missing a number of key contributors right now and it has shown. They've managed to get off 82 or fewer field goal attempts in three of their last four games. However, they have figured out how to stay competitive and that's by slowing the opposition, limiting three of their last four opponents to 81 or fewer FG attempts. Detroit quite simply shot the lights out last time out in Sacramento. While it has knocked down 43 and 47 field goals over its last two games, I'm not convinced that type of production is sustainable as it had been limited to fewer than 40 made field goals in each of its previous eight contests. On the flip side, the Pistons have done a nice job of at least limiting their opponents' scoring opportunities, holding four consecutive foes to 85 or fewer FG attempts. You would have to go back four games to find the last time Denver made good on more than 38 field goals, leaving it in a tough spot here should the pace stay down. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Brooklyn and Philadelphia at 7:30 pm et on Tuesday.

While both of these teams have shot with incredible efficiency lately, the pace just hasn't been there to dictate a posted total at this level. Brooklyn has gotten off 83 or fewer field goal attempts in five consecutive games and hasn't reached 90 since back on November 4th in Washington (in a game that still totalled only 214 points). Meanwhile, the undermanned 76ers have hoisted up 79 or fewer field goal attempts in three of their last four games and haven't attempted more than 83 field goals in any of their last six contests. While both sides have allowed their opponents' pace to tick up a little higher than they'd like in recent games, that's certainly not their M.O. and not something I expect to see continue. Note that Philadelphia has still limited seven straight opponents to 41 or fewer made field goals. It's a different story for Brooklyn as it has allowed three of its last four foes to knock down 43 or more field goals but it's unlikely the Sixers can take full advantage given their laundry list of current injuries. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Charlotte and Washington at 6:10 pm et on Sunday.

I'm expecting plenty of offensive fireworks in this Eastern Conference matchup on Sunday evening. Charlotte continues to roll offensively, despite having little to show for it in the win column. It has made good on 42 or more field goals in five consecutive games and now faces a forgiving Wizards defense that has allowed six of its last eight opponents to get off 90+ field goal attempts. On the flip side, Washington has knocked down 41+ field goals in six of its last seven games and Charlotte has certainly proven to be vulnerable defensively with five of its last seven foes making good on 40+ field goals. Take the over (8*).

Northwest Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Utah and Portland at 10:10 pm et on Saturday.

The Jazz were involved in a wild, high-scoring affair against the Suns last night, with that 'over' result snapping a brief two-game 'under' streak. I look for another relatively high-scoring contest on Saturday as the top two teams in the Northwest Division (currently) match up in Portland. While Utah's offense has been terrific, I'm still concerned about its lack of defense. Note that the Jazz have now allowed four of their last five opponents to knock down 44 or more field goals. Three of their last five opponents have gotten off 93 or more field goal attempts. The opportunities are there and I expect the Blazers to take advantage as they look to bounce back from a near-miss against the Nets two nights ago. While Portland has been able to limit its opponents scoring opportunities to a certain extent by holding four consecutive foes to 85 or fewer FG attempts, that hasn't stopped the opposition from making good on 40+ attempts in three consecutive games. Noting that this was a favorable matchup for Utah all of last season (the Jazz scored 129, 120, 123 and 111 points in four meetings) and arguably plays faster and with more efficiency this season, the Blazers should have their hands full defensively in this one. That being said, Portland is back at virtually full strength and will undoubtedly have its legs under it as it wraps up a three-game homestand off a day's rest. I'm anticipating a back-and-forth, high-scoring affair. Take the over (10*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Minnesota and Philadelphia at 7:40 pm et on Saturday.

Minnesota's current road trip got off to a sluggish start with a 114-103 loss in Memphis but since then we've seen the T'Wolves put up 129 and 126 points in wins over the Cavs and Magic. They've actually been playing at a considerably slower pace than expected lately but I look for that pace to tick up for this one. Note that Philadelphia has been a little more forgiving defensively than usual in recent contests, yielding 88, 89, 94 and 90 field goal attempts to its last four opponents. That's worth noting as they had limited nine of their first 11 opponents to 86 or fewer FG attempts this season. In that vein, the T'Wolves have allowed their last four opponents to knock down 47, 44, 40 and 42 field goals. Each of their last five opponents have hoisted up 88 or more field goal attempts. Despite playing on the second of back-to-back nights, the 76ers would appear poised to take advantage of their scoring opportunities in this matchup, noting they scored 120 and 133 points in two meetings with Minnesota last season and enter this contest having knocked down 40 or more field goals in three consecutive games - their longest such streak of the season to date. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Providence and Miami at 4 pm et on Saturday.

Both of these teams have been made to look very good offensively over the last couple of games but that's had everything to do with the level of competition they've faced. Here, we'll note that neither team has allowed an opponent to get off 60+ field goal attempts through three games this season. We've also seen some good discipline out of both teams defensively, with Providence yielding just 10 free throw attempts per game and Miami checking in allowing 13. In what projects as a tightly-contested affair with Miami favored by just a couple of points, I'll back the 'under' in Uncasville on Saturday afternoon. Take the under (8*).

Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Boston and New Orleans at 8:40 pm et on Friday.

We saw two relatively low-scoring affairs between these two teams last season but I expect a different story to unfold on Friday in New Orleans. Boston enters this game locked-in offensively, knocking down 46+ field goals in four of its last five games. Concerning, however, is the fact that the Celtics have allowed their last two opponents to get off a whopping 98 and 101 field goal attempts. In fact, seven of the C's last 10 opponents have hoisted up 90+ FG attempts. Not only that but seven of their last nine foes have knocked down more than 40 field goals. New Orleans certainly appears set to take advantage as it has made good on 42+ field goals in six of its last seven games and more than 40 in nine of its last 10 contests. However, like the Celtics, the Pelicans have proven vulnerable at times defensively, yielding 43+ made field goals in five of their last seven games. Take the over (10*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Oklahoma City and Memphis at 8:10 pm et on Friday.

I'm not sure any team has impressed me more offensively than the Thunder this season. After cashing with the 'over' in their most recent game - a 121-120 win in Washington two nights ago - I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play here. The Thunder have knocked down 44 or more field goals in five straight games heading into this contest. While they only managed to get off 81 field goal attempts in that win over the Wizards, they've still hoisted up 93+ field goal attempts in four of their last six contests. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies have sputtered a bit offensively of late but should be able to get on track here, noting that Oklahoma City has been very forgiving defensively, allowing four of its last five opponents to make good on 44+ field goals. Five of the Thunder's last seven opponents have gotten off 90+ FG attempts while the Grizzlies have eclipsed that number of attempts in six of their last seven contests so the opportunities should be there for the home side. Memphis has been all over the place defensively but I will note that three of its last six opponents have attempted more than 90 field goals - that after only three of its first nine foes got into the 90+ range. Take the over (8*).

Tournament Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Baylor and Virginia at 7 pm et on Friday.

We've seen the 'over' go a combined 5-0 in these two teams' first five games but I expect a different story to unfold as they match up in Las Vegas on Friday. While Baylor's offense has garnered most of the attention, it has quietly been in midseason form defensively as well. The Bears check in having allowed just 49, 48 and 56 field goal attempts through three games. Yes, they've faced inferior competition but it's not as if today's opponent, Virginia, will be looking to really push the pace offensively. The Cavaliers have scored 73 and 89 points in winning their first two games, also against inferior competition, but have hoisted up just 47 and 54 field goal attempts. They quite simply shot the lights out against Monmouth last time out, leading to their highest-scoring performance of the young season. Like Baylor, Virginia has been locked-in defensively, holding its first two opponents to only 53 and 41 FG attempts. Both teams have been lighting it up from three-point range while also getting to the free throw line at an incredible rate. That changes as they both step up in class in this one. Take the under (10*).

Southwest Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Houston and Dallas at 8:40 pm et on Wednesday.

The Mavs pulled out a 103-101 win over the Clippers last night despite the visitors shooting a blistering 54% from the field. I'm not going to knock the Dallas defense for that performance as Los Angeles quite simply shot the lights out. Incredibly, the Mavs actually held the Clips to just 64 field goal attempts. Dallas has now held four of its last five opponents to 80 or fewer field goal attempts and should have little trouble locking down one of the worst offenses in the league in the Rockets on Wednesday. Note that the Mavs themselves have topped out at just 86 FG attempts over their last eight contests. They've been held to fewer than 40 made field goals in five of their last six games. Stunningly bad on offense, Houston has been limited to 40 or fewer made field goals in 11 of its last 12 contests. On a more positive note, the Rockets have at least been able to keep their opponents pace in check to a certain extent, holding seven of their last eight opponents to 87 or fewer FG attempts. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Oklahoma City and Washington at 7:10 pm et on Wednesday.

I'm anticipating a track meet between the Thunder and Wizards on Wednesday. Oklahoma City is running as free-flowing of an offense as you'll find in the NBA right now, hoisting up 102, 111, 93, 88 and 98 field goal attempts over its last five games. Better still, the Thunder have knocked down 41, 50, 52, 55 and 47 field goals over that stretch. There's little reason to expect Washington to offer much resistance as five of its last six opponents have gotten off 90+ FG attempts. While the Wizards haven't been pushing the pace to the same level as the Thunder, they can certainly get out and run and take advantage of the opportunities they're afforded. In that regard, they should have plenty here as the Thunder have allowed four of their last five opponents to get off 93+ FG attempts with three of their last four opponents knocking down 46+ field goals. The Wiz have made good on 41+ field goals in four of their last five contests. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between New York and Utah at 9:10 pm et on Tuesday.

This game has 'track meet' written all over it as the Knicks head to Salt Lake City to face the Jazz on Tuesday night, with both teams coming off losses. New York has gotten off a whopping 90+ field goal attempts in 10 of its 13 games this season while Utah has done the same in 10 of its last 14 contests. The problem is neither team has offered much resistance to the opposition defensively. New York has been lit up for more than 40 made field goals in seven of its last 10 contests. Each of Utah's last seven opponents have knocked down 40+ field goals. We saw both teams shoot poorly in last season's two meetings in this series and as a result both games stayed 'under' the total. I expect a much different story to unfold here. Take the over (8*).

Non-Division Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Los Angeles and Dallas at 8:40 pm et on Tuesday.

The Mavericks are mired in an incredible ATS slump right now having gone eight games without covering the spread. While I do look for them to win this game on Tuesday night, we're dealing with another inflated pointspread so I prefer to play the 'under' in this spot, which is set up well with the Clippers coming off a relatively high-scoring 'over' result last night and Dallas checking in off consecutive 'overs'. Note that these two teams met four times last season with Dallas topping out at 112 points in those contests with two of them being settled in the 90's. The Mavs continue to do a tremendous job of limiting their opponents' scoring opportunities, having held six of their last seven opponents to 84 or fewer field goal attempts with six of those foes knocking down fewer than 40 of those attempts. From an offensive standpoint, Dallas has hoisted up 86 of fewer FG attempts in seven straight games. The Clippers certainly won't shy away from a low-event game in a back-to-back spot. Note that they've gotten off 87 or fewer FG attempts in all 14 games this season. They've also limited seven straight opponents to 88 or fewer FG attempts and four of their last five to 40 or fewer made field goals. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Michigan State and Kentucky at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

There's no question which way I'm going with the total in this early season showdown between the Spartans and Wildcats. The 'under' has combined to go 3-1 in these two teams' first four games this season and there's little reason to anticipate a reversal of that trend here. Kentucky has been 'filling it up' through two games, knocking down 34 and 28 field goals in blowout wins over Howard and Duquesne - both at Rupp Arena no less. It isn't likely to enjoy the same type of success here, however, noting that Michigan State just got done holding Gonzaga to only 23 made field goals in a tough 64-63 loss on Friday. Speaking of that game, the Spartans could only muster 21 made field goals against the Zags and now deal with a Kentucky defense that limited its first two opponents to just 43-of-133 shooting, despite the lopsided nature of those two aforementioned contests. Noting that the 'under' is a long-term 110-79 with Michigan State playing on a neutral court and 13-2 the last 15 times Kentucky has come off a double-digit home victory, as is the case here, we'll confidently back the 'under' on Tuesday. Take the under (8*).

Eastern Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Toronto and Detroit at 7:10 pm et on Monday.

After giving up 132 and 118 points in losing efforts to open this three-game road trip, I look for the Raptors to tighten things up considerably on Monday night in Detroit. Toronto has still held three of its last four opponents to 84 or fewer field goal attempts. On the flip side, we find the Raptors down-trodden offensively missing a number of key contributors and having knocked down 38 or fewer field goals in three of their last four games. The Pistons have lost three games in a row, allowing 117 points or more in each contest. Like the Raptors, they're struggling offensively, making good on fewer than 40 field goals in six straight games. Noting that the 'under' is 23-11 in the Pistons last 34 games when coming off consecutive 'over' results, leading to an average total of 216.4 points, we'll confidently take that position here. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Minnesota and Cleveland at 6:10 pm et on Sunday.

We won with the 'under' in the Cavs most recent game on Friday night against the Warriors and I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play on Sunday as they return home to host the T'Wolves. Minnesota is having a tough enough time just getting shots off lately, let alone knocking them down. It has hoisted up 81 or fewer field goal attempts in four consecutive games. Cleveland is obviously a stingy defensive squad, yielding 83 or fewer FG attempts to its opponents in four of its last five games. Each of the Cavs last six opponents have knocked down 40 or fewer field goals. Minnesota has quietly been limiting its opponents' pace as well, permitting fewer than 90 FG attempts in seven of its last eight contests. It's been a case of 'feast-or-famine' for the Cavs offense but this isn't an ideal spot, returning home on just one day of rest off a five-game road trip. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Charlotte and Miami at 8:10 pm et on Saturday.

We missed with the 'under' in this same matchup on Thursday but that was a 'bad beat' by very definition as the two teams needed overtime to get 'over' the total. Not much of an adjustment has been made to the total in advance of Saturday's rematch so I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the 'under' again. Note that Charlotte continues to struggle offensively, making good on just 36, 33, 32, 42, 34 and 40 field goals in regulation time over its last six games. In the high-water mark game over that stretch, it still scored 'only' 100 points in a loss against the Wizards. On the flip side, due to a number of key injuries, the Hornets have had to work to slow their opponents' pace in order to stay competitive and that has worked to a certain extent. They've limited six of their last seven opponents to 88 or fewer field goal attempts in regulation time. Miami shot just 37-of-83 in the first four quarters on Thursday. Of course, the Heat boast one of the best defenses in the league, limiting each of their last six opponents to 86 or fewer FG attempts in regulation time. Only one of their last five opponents has knocked down more than 40 field goals and that was Sacramento in a game where it scored 'only' 107 points. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between UMass-Lowell and Rutgers at 2 pm et on Saturday.

Both of these teams shot the lights out in their most recent game with UMass-Lowell crushing Columbia 89-62 and Rutgers rolling to an 88-50 rout of Sacred Heart (we won with the Scarlet Knights in that game). Note that Rutgers got off 'only' 60 field goal attempts in Thursday's win after hoisting up 72 in its season-opener against a defense-less Columbia squad. The Scarlet Knights have absolutely manhandled their first two opponents defensively, limiting them to 47 and 53 field goal attempts. UMass-Lowell has thrived from beyond the arc through two games, averaging 10 made three-pointers per contest. Rutgers, however, has limited its first two opponents to a grand total of six made threes. Like Rutgers, UMass-Lowell has also played with some defensive intensity in the early going this season, yielding just 18 and 19 made field goals to its first two opponents. After turning the basketball over 21 times last time out and facing a Rutgers defense that has forced 50 turnovers through two games, I can't help but think UMass-Lowell's number one priority in this one will simply be hanging on to the basketball, ultimately leading to plenty of shot clock-draining possessions. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Cleveland and Golden State at 10:10 pm et on Friday.

The Cavs are coming off consecutive high-scoring affairs, shooting north of 50% in both of those contests but also allowing the opposition to eclipse the 50% shooting mark. The pace certainly didn't dictate those totals of 236 and 247 points, however, with the Cavs getting off 83 and 86 field goal attempts while holding their opponents to just 79 and 76. Noting that Cleveland has held each of its last four opponents to 87 or fewer FG attempts and 40 or fewer made field goals, I look for the Cavs to lean on their defense to try to bring an end to their first losing streak of the season here. Golden State has limited four of its last five opponents to 88 or fewer FG attempts. The outlier came last time out - a game in which the Warriors held Sacramento to just 37 made field goals on 91 attempts (that game stayed 'under' the total). On the flip side, the Warriors opened the campaign by knocking down 41+ field goals in six straight games. Since then, they've eclipsed the 40 field goal mark only twice in five games. Also note that they've gotten off 88 or fewer FG attempts in three of their last four games. Finally, I'll point to the fact that last year's two meetings between these teams totalled just 193 and 178 points. Take the under (8*).

Southeast Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Charlotte and Miami at 7:40 pm et on Thursday.

The Hornets are mired in a serious shooting slump right now, due in part to injuries to key players but also just as a result of what looks like a broken offense. They don't figure to pick themselves up off the mat against one of the league's best defensive teams in the Heat on Thursday. Note that Charlotte has knocked down just 36, 33, 32, 42 and 34 field goals over its last five games. In the one outlier the Hornets still scored only 100 points in an eight-point home loss against the Wizards. On a positive note, we have seen Charlotte limit its opponents scoring opportunities to a certain extent, yielding just 84, 80 and 75 field goal attempts over its last three contests. The Hornets last two opponents, the Wizards and Blazers, have quite simply shot the lights out, something I don't envision the Heat doing on Thursday. Miami is in a bit of a slump of its own, making good on 40 or fewer field goals in five of its last six games. The pace still isn't there for the Heat as they've hoisted up fewer than 90 FG attempts in nine straight games - of course that's partly by design. Few teams have been as stingy defensively as the Heat check in having allowed 76, 84, 86, 80 and 72 FG attempts over their last five games. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is 23-11 in the Hornets last 34 games following consecutive ATS losses while the Heat have seen the 'under' go an incredible 10-1 in their last 11 home games after losing two of their last three contests, as is the case here. Take the under (10*).

Pacific Division Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between the Lakers and Clippers at 10:10 pm et on Wednesday.

We're working with a considerably lower total than we saw in the first matchup between these in-city rivals this season. That game was of the low-scoring variety with the Clippers prevailing by a 103-97 score. Here, I'm expecting a different story to unfold, at least as far as the total is concerned. Few teams are struggling to defend as badly as the Lakers. They've allowed five of their last six opponents to get off 95+ field goal attempts with six of their last seven foes knocking down 41+ field goals. In fact, three of their last four opponents have made good on a whopping 47+ field goals. Meanwhile, the Clippers come in on a bit of an offensive run, knocking down 40+ field goals in four straight games - despite getting off only 84, 80, 87 and 79 FG attempts over that stretch. On the flip side, we've yet to see the Clips really lock in defensively as they continue to miss super-stopper Kawhi Leonard due to injury. Seven of the Clippers last 10 opponents have made good on 40+ field goals. Here, we'll note that the 'over' is 15-4 in the Lakers last 19 road games (which this technically is) after losing three of their last four contests, as is the case here, resulting in an average total of 237.8 points. Take the over (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Brooklyn and Dallas at 9:45 pm et on Monday.

The first matchup between these two teams this season featured a much higher posted total and that game ended up reaching a whopping 254 points, aided by overtime. Here, I'm anticipating a much lower-scoring affair. Note that the Nets continue to struggle to just get shots off, let alone knock them down. While there was an outlier of a 50 made field goal performance in a rout of Washington on Friday (we still won with the 'under' in that game), they've been held to 84 or fewer field goal attempts in four of their last five games. Now they face a stingy Mavericks defense that has held four straight opponents to fewer than 90 field goal attempts and their last three foes to fewer than 40 made field goals. On the flip side, Dallas has gotten off 86 or fewer FG attempts in six straight contests. It shot the lights out in each of its last two games (50% or better in both contests) yet still scored 'only' 103 and 111 points. Brooklyn has been stingy in its own right, holding its last four opponents to 87, 89, 83 and 87 FG attempts. Take the under (8*).

Western Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Denver and San Antonio at 9:40 pm et on Monday.

These two teams just met on Saturday, posting an 'under' result as the Nuggets rolled to a 126-101 victory. We've seen an adjustment to the total in advance of Monday's rematch but I believe it's moving in the wrong direction. You could argue that San Antonio is the league's worst defensive team right now. The Spurs have allowed their last six opponents to stuff the boxscore, knocking down 52, 47, 40, 57, 42 and 53 field goals. While they did limit Denver to only 80 field goal attempts on Saturday, that was on the road. It's been a different story at home, where San Antonio has allowed four of its five opponents to get off 94+ field goal attempts. It's been a similar story for the Nuggets on the road, where they've allowed all five of their opponents to make good on 42+ field goals. Prior to Saturday's game, Denver had allowed each of its previous four opponents to attempt 90+ field goals. Take the over (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Phoenix and Philadelphia at 8:10 pm et on Monday.

You'd be hard-pressed to find two teams playing better defensive basketball than the Suns and 76ers right now. While both of last year's meetings went 'over' the total we're dealing with tonight (at the time of writing), I believe the number will prove too high this time around. Phoenix wrapped up a split in a two-game home set with the Blazers, putting on a defensive clinic in Saturday's blowout victory, holding Portland to just 30-of-79 shooting. The Suns have now limited five straight opponents to 87 or fewer field goal attempts and seven of nine foes to 38 or fewer made field goals this season. It's a similar story for the Joel Embiid-less 76ers. They held the Knicks to 37-of-80 shooting last time out and have limited each of their last four opponents to 81 or fewer FG attempts. On the flip side, however, they've knocked down fewer than 40 field goals in six of their last nine games overall. After a hot start to the season, the Suns shooting has cooled off as well as they've made good on 41, 36 and 35 field goals over their last three games, three of their four lowest FG totals of the season. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Hofstra and Princeton at 7:30 pm et on Monday.

These two teams met last season with Hofstra prevailing by a score of 81-77. That was a game that saw just 21 made three-pointers and only 15 free throw attempts. Both teams have some talent to replace this season - Princeton in particular with three starters from last year's team having moved on. The cupboard is by no means bare, however. Hofstra adds Tyler Thomas from Sacred Heart, where he averaged over 19 points per game last season and could challenge Aaron Estrada for CAA Player of the Year - an award won by Estrada in 2021-22. While we're dealing with a higher posted total in this matchup than we saw in last year's meeting, I don't believe it will prove to be high enough. Note that the 'over' is 25-10 in Hofstra's last 35 games as a road underdog of three points or less, as is the case here, leading to an average total of 153.4 points. Meanwhile, the 'over' is 10-2 in Princeton's last 12 non-conference tilts, also averaging a total of 153.4 points in those contests. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Houston and Minnesota at 8:10 pm et on Saturday.

Both of these teams are completely out of sorts offensively right now while both have also shown a pulse defensively of late. I believe this total will prove far too high. Note that Houston has managed to knock down 40+ field goals just once in its last seven games. Minnesota has made good on 41, 40, 37 and 39 field goals in its last four contests. Both teams have limited their opponents tempo to a certain extent lately with Houston holding its last five foes to 90 or fewer field goal attempts. The T'Wolves have yielded fewer than 90 field goal attempts to four straight opponents. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Brooklyn and Washington at 7:10 pm et on Friday.

The 'over' has cashed in the Wizards last two games but the pace certainly hasn't dictated those results. Washington got off 81 and 78 field goal attempts in those two contests while limiting the 76ers to 82 and 84. Yet the two games totalled 229 and 232 points. The Wiz quite simply shot the lights out two nights ago but I don't anticipate a repeat performance here. Brooklyn continues to struggle to get shots off, hoisting up 82, 80 and 75 field goal attempts over its last three contests. On a positive note, the Nets have held four of their last five opponents to fewer than 90 FG attempts and that should be the focus again here as they come off a loss to the Bulls at home (we won with Chicago in that game). Note that the 'under' is 23-12 in the Nets last 35 games where the total was set between 220 and 229.5 points going back to the start of last season, resulting in an average total of just 222.0 points. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Miami and Indiana at 7:10 pm et on Friday.

While I realize the 'over' is 2-1-1 in each of these teams' last four games, respectively, I don't expect that short-term trend to continue here. Neither team is forcing the issue offensively with the Heat getting off fewer than 90 field goals attempts in seven straight games and the Pacers hoisting up 87 or fewer in three of their last four contests. On the flip side, Miami has yielded just 76, 84 and 86 FG attempts to its last three opponents while Indiana has limited five consecutive opponents to 87 FG attempts or fewer. The last two meetings in this series both went 'over' the total but neither would have surpassed the total we're working with tonight. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between New Orleans and Los Angeles at 10:40 pm et on Wednesday.

It took a little while but the Lakers have essentially thrown defense out the window and coming off their first victory of the season, I don't expect them to change a thing as they welcome the Pelicans to Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday. Los Angeles' last three opponents have gotten off 92, 99 and 96 field goal attempts, scoring 110, 111 and 110 points over that stretch. I certainly expect the Pelicans to do a better job of taking advantage of an up-tempo affair, noting that they've knocked down 42+ field goals in five of their six games this season. The Lakers, despite their struggles, have made good on 40+ field goals in four of six contests this season. Here, they'll face a New Orleans squad that has yielded 92+ FG attempts to three of its last five opponents. The scoring opportunities will be there tonight, and I'm confident both teams can take full advantage. Take the over (8*).

Western Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Utah and Dallas at 8:40 pm et on Wednesday.

The 'over' has cashed in each of Dallas' last five games as the Mavs have knocked down 41+ field goals in four of those five contests. Keep in mind, we saw two games go to overtime over that stretch. Dallas has limited each of its six opponents to 85 or fewer field goal attempts in regulation time this season and I expect it to keep Utah in check to certain extent here as well. The Jazz had a stretch earlier this season where they got off 93+ field goal attempts in three consecutive games, knocking down 43+ field goals in each of those contests. Since then, they've gotten off just 90, 91, 87 and 89 FG attempts over their last four games. I'm certainly anticipating some regression here after they laid waste to an undermanned Grizzlies defense in a two-game set in Salt Lake City over the weekend, making good on 45 and 42 field goals in those two contests. Different story here as the Mavs build off Sunday's game in which they limited the Magic to only 37 made field goals (that contest still found its way 'over' the total). Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Washington and Philadelphia at 6:10 pm et on Wednesday

This is the back half of a home-and-home set between the Wizards and 76ers after Philadelphia pulled out a 118-111 victory on Monday. We're working with a higher posted total in this quick rematch and I believe it will prove too high. Note that the pace certainly didn't dictate a high-scoring affair on Monday. Philadelphia quite simply shot the lights out. The 76ers got off just 82 field goal attempts in that game. In fact, the 76ers have hoisted up 82 or fewer field goal attempts in five consecutive games and 84 or fewer in all eight contests this season. Similarly, the Wizards got off only 81 field goal attempts on Monday. They've made good on just 33, 36 and 38 field goals over their last three contests and have yet to attempt more than 90 shots in a game this season. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Orlando and Dallas at 7:40 pm et on Sunday.

It was a true 'bad beat' for 'under' bettors in the Mavericks 117-111 overtime loss to the Thunder last night. Here, I don't think there's any reason to jump off the 'under' as the Mavs stay home to host the Magic. Orlando posted its first win of the season on Friday, snapping a five-game losing streak to open the campaign. Note that the Magic have gotten off more than 86 field goal attempts just once in six games this season. On the flip side, Orlando has done a pretty good job of slowing its opponents, yielding fewer than 90 field goal attempts in four of six contests while also holding its last two opponents to just 36 and 33 made field goals. Dallas is of course an elite defensive team, limiting all five of its opponents to 85 or fewer FG attempts in regulation time this season. Last night, the Thunder quite simply shot exceptionally well from the field - the second time a Mavs opponent has done that in its last three games. I don't see that trend continuing here. Note that the Mavs offense doesn't play at all that quick of a pace, hoisting up 86 or fewer FG attempts in regulation time in four of five contests. Even with overtime last night, the Mavs still knocked down only 38 field goals. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is a perfect 10-0 the last 10 times the Mavs have played for the third time in four nights, as is the case here, resulting in an average total of just 202.5 points. The 'under' is also 12-2 the last 14 times Dallas has played at home after losing two of its last three games, leading to an average total of 205.9 points. Take the under (8*).

Eastern Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Indiana and Brooklyn at 7:40 pm et on Saturday.

Both of these teams have struggled out of the gates this season although Indiana did pick up a much-needed win in a high-scoring affair in Washington last night. The Nets have had a tough enough time just getting their shots off on offense, attempting fewer than 90 field goals in regulation time in all five games to date. We have seen them clamp down on the opposition over their last two contests, limiting the Bucks to 88 field goal attempts and the Mavericks to just 73 in regulation time last time out. The Pacers two lowest FGA numbers of the season to date have come in their last two games. They've knocked down 38, 37 and 41 field goals over their last three contests. On the flip side, Indiana has limited four of its last five opponents to 87 FGA or fewer. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Philadelphia and Toronto at 7:40 pm et on Friday.

Two nights ago, these two teams combined to score 228 points in a double-digit Raptors victory. That outcome had more to do with both teams shooting the lights out than the pace of play. The 76ers have now gotten off 80, 83, 84, 80 and 79 field goal attempts through their first five games this season. They've held four of their five opponents to fewer than 90 field goal attempts. It's been a similar story for the Raptors. They've hoisted up 87 or fewer FG attempts in all five games while limiting the opposition to just 77, 80, 76, 83 and 79 FG attempts. You get the idea. I'm confident we'll see both teams do a better job of defending the perimeter in particular in Friday's rematch and here we'll note that the 'under' is 32-16 in the 76ers last 48 games when playing on the road off an outright loss as a road favorite, as is the case here, resulting in an average total of just 196.2 points. Take the under (8*).

Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Miami and Golden State at 10:10 pm et on Thursday.

The Heat will be playing the second of back-to-back nights off a lopsided win in Portland last night. Miami had little success breaking through against Golden State in two matchups last season, making good on just 37 field goals in each contest. While the Warriors have looked vulnerable defensively in the early going this season, they do come in the more rested team and off a 134-105 dismantling at the hands of the Suns (we won with Phoenix in that game) two nights ago, I'm confident we'll see them come out much sharper on Thursday. Note that this has all the markings of a game Steve Kerr's Warriors would like to 'manage' noting that they'll head out on a five-game in seven-night road trip that begins Friday in Charlotte. While Miami did score 119 points in last night's victory, the Heat have played at a reasonably slow pace, getting off 80, 92, 76, 83 and 87 field goal attempts through their first five games this season. In the outlier they hoisted up 92 field goal attempts but still scored 'only' 104 points in a loss against Boston (that game totalled just 215 points). Defensively, Miami has been as locked-in as any team in the Association, holding each of its last four opponents to 87 or fewer FG attempts while yielding just 37, 34 and 34 made field goals over its last three contests. The Warriors last three opponents have quite simply shot the lights out but I'm not convinced we'll see that from the Heat in a back-to-back, three-in-four and five-in-seven situation here. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Houston and Utah at 9:10 pm et on Wednesday.

These two teams just met two nights ago in Houston with the Rockets pulling off the minor upset in a 114-108 victory, cruising comfortably 'under' the total. I expect a different story to unfold from a totals perspective on Wednesday, however. That was a slow-paced game for Houston - relatively speaking - as it got off just 90 field goal attempts marking a season-low. Yet the Rockets still scored 114 points. I'm confident we'll see the pace tick up here. Houston opponents have been 'filling it up' in the early going this season, making good on 45, 45, 48 and 44 field goals through four games. Monday's game marked the first time this season Utah held an opponent to fewer than 40 made field goals, but again, it still allowed 114 points. The Jazz have hoisted up 111 (aided by overtime), 98 and 93 FG attempts over their last three games. Even in their season-opener when they got off just 83 FG attempts, they still scored 123 points in a rout of the Nuggets. In fact, Utah has made good on 42+ field goals in all four games this season. While Monday's contest between these two teams stayed 'under' the total, we're dealing with a lower total this time around and keep in mind, we're just one matchup removed from a game that produced 259 points between these two last March. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Brooklyn and Milwaukee at 7:40 pm et on Wednesday.

We missed with the 'under' in the Nets most recent game - a wild, 134-124 loss in Memphis two nights ago. I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play here as I don't believe the pace Brooklyn, or Milwaukee for that matter, has been playing at warrants such a high posted total. Note that Brooklyn has hoisted up just 89, 80 and 87 field goal attempts through its first three games. It quite simply shot the lights out against the Grizzlies on Monday - something I don't expect it to do again here, noting that the Bucks have only played two games, but have appeared to be in midseason form defensively, allowing just 36 made field goals in each contest. Like the Nets, the Bucks haven't exactly been pushing the pace at every opportunity. Albeit with a small sample size, they've gotten off just 84 and 85 FG attempts in their first two games but like the Nets, did shoot the lights out in their most recent contest, that coming against the lowly Rockets. Take the under (8*).

Atlantic Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Philadelphia and Toronto at 7:40 pm et on Wednesday.

Few teams have been as locked-in defensively as the Raptors in the early going this season. They check in having held their first four opponents to 77, 80, 76 and 83 field goal attempts and have yet to allow more than 38 made field goals in any of those contests. Not surprisingly, the 'under' has cashed in three of their four games to date. Offensively, it's been a bit of a struggle. Toronto has topped out at 41 made field goals and that came in a game where it scored just 105 points in a loss in Brooklyn. The 76ers have struggled offensively out of the gate as well, getting off no more than 84 field goal attempts in any of their four contests. They shot exceptionally well in their opener against the Celtics but it came at the expense of their defense in a 126-117 loss (we won with the Celtics in that game). Only one of Philadelphia's four opponents has reached 90 FG attempts and that was Indiana last time out, scoring just 106 points in that game. Take the under (10*).