The set-up: This is a huge game for both teams. Charlotte has two games left and it'll need to win out to maintain its eighth spot in the East. Charlotte certainly will be motivated here as well as it's now dropped three in a row. They also play with revenge here after a double-digit loss to the Knicks in early April. Don't expect Charlotte to sit back and wiat for the Knicks to something, instead look for the Hornets to push the pace from start to finish.

The pick: New York has secured a playoff spot, but it's not in great form either right now. The Knicks are known for their tough defensive play, but note that they've seen the total go "over" the number in eight of their last 11 home games as a favorite in the -1.5 to -7.5 points range. The circumstances point to the "over" as the sharp wager here.

This is a 10* TOTAL COACHS CORNER on the OVER Hornets/Knicks.