1* free play on the LA Lakers...

The Lakers come into Chicago as losers of four straight, but they've covered the spread in six straight. They are getting a generous cushion here in Chicago, and the Bulls have not been sharp, losing five of their last six. My money is on the visitors plus the points.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Previous History - The Lakers have covered the spread in five straight road games, and five straight when playing on one day's rest. The Bulls have failed to cover in five of their last six at home, and nine of their last 10 when playing on one day's rest.

2. Injuries - The Bulls are still missing leading scorer Jimmy Butler, and their former Defensive Player of the Year Joakim Noah is out for the season. Derek Rose is healthy, but surely he's just one wrong step away from the IR.

3. X-Factor - The Bulls are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 home games against teams with a road winning percentage below .400.

Selection: This is a play on the L.A. Lakers (Free)