New Orleans Pelicans o105 (-105)
Smoothie King Center, New Orleans, Louisiana
January 5, 2017, 5:00PM PST
Before Monday's effort at Cleveland, the Pelicans had been held to less than 100 points in ten of the 36 games played so far this season. New Orleans scored at least 105 in the following game in all but one of those instances. We expect a similar bounce-back on teh heels of the 82-90 loss to the Cavs Monday, especially considering that the Pelicans are at home tonight (New Orleans averages better than eight points more at home than on the road).
These teams tempo likewise supports the OVER. At just under 87, New Orleans ranks fifth by field goal attempts per game. Similarly, the Pelicans are fifth in possessions per contest. Atlanta too features an up-and-down style of play, as reflected by the Hawks' #11 seeding by possessions per game. Moreover, despite their stout defense (the Hawks are fifth in defensive efficiency), Atlanta turns the ball over more than all but four NBA teams. Additionally, Atlanta is a poor defensive rebounding team. Each of these characteristics point to better than a fighting chance at the Pelicans exceeding the OVER threshold.
Happy betting!!