Utah at New Orleans

There was a lot of hope in Utah that they could contend for a Top 4 slot in the playoffs, but a 13-11 start began to create a lot of concern just where this team was heading. That has changed rather quickly as the Jazz are the hottest team in the NBA and is 10-1 in its last 11 games. They are still playing above the line, covering six straight. The difference is defense as the Jazz has held 10 of 11 opponents to 45% shooting or less after the previous seven games saw five opponents top the 45% mark. New Orleans, after an 11 game losing streak, is 6-2, so the Jazz won't take them lightly. Also, bad teams on a prolonged good stretch are usually not good bets. Make the play on Utah.