This is an 8* TOP TOTAL on the UNDER Hawks/Heat.

This is a two-game set. Both teams have been playing decently of late, especially the Heat. ATL has lost two of it last three, as its rally from being 16 points down fell short in a loss at OKC in its last outing.

The Heat though have won five straight behind great play from Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.

If ATL is ever going to break out, it'll have to improve on the defensive end obviously as it's allowing 121 points over its last ten games. The Hawks do catch a break here though facing this slower-paced Miami offense.

Miami's defense though is underrated once again, ranked in the top six.

The Hawks allowed 135 points the last time they were here, but I don't see that happening again.

I think Miami "controls" the pace of this opening contest, which will ultimately help in driving this total UNDER the number at the end of the night.

Good luck, NP