The defending world champion Spurs remain an elite team, capable of winning it again this season. They have won eight in a row, outscoring opponents by an average of 13.8 points during this span.

But what of the Nets? They are 7-9 and were taxed to beat the 4-15 Knicks last night. Brooklyn defeated New York, 98-93, but four of their starters logged more than 35 minutes. The lone one who didn't, ancient Kevin Garnett, played more than 29 minutes.

The Nets are 3-12-1 ATS following a straight-up victory. They are 1-6 ATS the past seven times playing without rest. Brooklyn also has yet to beat a team with a winning record this season.

The Spurs will have Tim Duncan and Tony Parker back today after both were rested in the Spurs' last game two nights ago. San Antonio has dominated the Nets winning 21 of the past 23 meetings. The Spurs defeated the Nets, 99-87, at home on Nov. 22 and are 9-2 in their last 11 road games versus the Nets. One of those losses occurred last February when the Spurs were missing Duncan, Parker, Kawhi Leonard, Manu Ginobili and Boris Diaw.

The Spurs have won 16 in a row against Eastern Conference foes, holding those foes to an average of 92.8 points. The Nets haven't reached triple digits in eight of their last nine games. The Spurs have covered in 13 of their last 18 games against sub .500 teams.

(Editor's note: In addition to this free selection, long-time pro Stephen Nover has his strongest college basketball play of the season going today along with his top NBA play.)