The set-up: New York is 8-10 after falling by three points in Portland last time out. The Knicks' offense isn't very good, but their defensive play has been outstanding, allowing just 103.6 PPG so far this season, despite allowing 116 last time out. The last thing New York can do is try to get into a "shootout" with the red hot Jazz and expect to win this game.

The pick: Winning can lead to complacency. After eight straight wins, including a 19-point victory over the Warriors last time out, and with the Mavericks coming to town tomorrow for a two-game set, I think the Jazz take the foot off the gas on the offensive side here and look to control this contest instead throughout. This one has all the makings of a lower-scoring and defensive affair.

The is a 10* TOTAL PLAY-BOOK on the UNDER Knicks/Jazz.