The New Orleans Pelicans played a competitive game in San Antonio last night, and they return home tonight to host the Denver Nuggets. Despite all the injuries, the Pelicans remain competitive at home, and I don't think the bookmakers are showing them enough respect. The Nuggets nearly blew a big lead in last night's game at Memphis, and I don't expect much of an effort from the visitors tonight.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Previous History - The Pelicans have been a good bet when coming off a loss, covering the spread in four of their last five following a defeat. They should be the more motivated of the two teams with both squads playing their second game of a back-to-back. The Nuggets have struggled in such situations, failing to cover in five of their last seven when playing on no rest.

2. Alexis Ajinca - The rash of injuries have presented an opportunity for players to step up and make the most of an increase in playing time. One of those players has been the 27 year old French center Alexis Ajinca. He's totaled 30 points and 15 rebounds in his last two games, and he scored 22 against the Pacers last Thursday.

3. X-Factor - Don't expect much from Kenneth Faried here in a back-to-back. He's just returned from a back injury, and he scored just six points in 24 minutes last night. He isn't likely to get a lot of playing time in this situation.

Selection: This is a play on the New Orleans Pelicans (10*)