The New Orleans Pelicans are just 2.5 games back of Phoenix for the eighth and final playoff spot in the West. They'll need to pick up points against inferior teams like Charlotte if they want to stay in contention for a playoff spot. The Hornets appear to ripe for the picking with Al Jefferson out for at least the next three weeks.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Anthony Davis - He scored 24 points, 13 rebounds and three blocked shots in his last game against these Hornets. He might be able to improve on those numbers tonight, as he won't have to worry about Jefferson.

2. Road Warriors - The Pelicans are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 road games.

3. X-Factor - The Pelicans are 16-4-1 ATS in the last 21 meeting

Selection: This is a play on the New Orleans Pelicans (8*)