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New Orleans Pelicans @ Houston Rockets u232 -105
Toyota Center, Houston, Texas
October 17, 2018 5:00PM PDT
Our computer simulation program anticipates a final score of around 220 when the action concludes in the Rocket's home opener versus the Pelicans.
While the number of O/U wagers is roughly evenly split as of the time of this writing, three times as many dollars are on the OVER as are backing the UNDER. This lopsided take explains why the betting total is up a full 2.5 points from the opening level of 229.5.
Importantly, we do not interpret the rising total as conflicting with our pick, as, per data from BetLabs Sports, the UNDER has exhibited a historical edge in games where the betting public expects a shootout.
The UNDER is 53-41-1 in games with a total that opened high and closed higher, featuring two teams that made the playoffs last year.
Given the froth surrounding the OVER at present though, it might make sense to hold off until closer to tip-off before pulling the trigger on the UNDER...the number might easily kiss 233 or 234.
Happy betting!!