NBA Best Bets Today | Expert Picks for Thursday, March 21

At the start of the year, we saw a lot of high-scoring games. Not so much anymore!

That said, I do now think this O/U line is much too low here. New Orleans is off three straight wins. It's No. 1 in the Southwest. It has another tough game at Miami tomorrow night.

These teams all play tough defense, but the one that's the most efficient on the offensive end will win this game.

This doesn't need to be a super high-scoring game at all to over this super low number.

Orlando has won four straight and is No. 1 in the Southeast. It's seen the total go UNDER in three straight after its most recent 112-92 win over Charlotte (second straight opponent its held to under 100 points.) Note though that the Magic have seen the total go OVER the number in three of their last four after playing to three or more straight UNDERS in a row.

Look for this total to fly OVER the number sooner, rather than later.

The Bulls are averaging 115.7 points in their last four games. They've allowed at least 112 points in six of their last eight games.

The Rockets are playing at a faster pace than earlier in the season and have become more offensive-minded.

Houston is averaging 129.6 points in regulation during its last three games. The Rockets have been good for at least 112 points in all but one of their last nine games.

So I like the chances of this game going Over at this number.