This NBA matchup pits the Dallas Mavericks against the Philadelphia 76ers, a contest shaped by both teams' injury situations. The Mavericks, with a 12-22 record, currently sit 12th in the Western Conference and are on a three-game losing streak. The 76ers, holding a 17-14 record, are 6th in the Eastern Conference, having just edged out a victory against the Memphis Grizzlies in overtime to break a slump. Philadelphia has a recent edge in their head-to-head history, winning three of the last five encounters, including a 121-114 victory over the Mavericks on December 21st of this season. Will the home team make a splash? Review: Currently 8 for 8 in basketball, starting the new year well. If you like football + basketball, please keep an eye out tonight! Review: Currently 8 for 8 in basketball, starting the new year well. If you like football + basketball, please keep an eye out tonight! Hot and Cold Analysis: The initial odds for the away team are at a medium-high level and have adjusted. The odds moved to a lower-medium level, potentially creating a scenario where backing the away team might be tempting. Based on this analysis, the away team is considered the hotter pick, suggesting to avoid the hot pick and go for the home team, who will not cover the spread. Prediction: Home +2.5 Over/Under: Over 231.5