Zack Cimini

After losing three straight games at home the Miami Heat won decisively on the road Wednesday at Brooklyn. The Nets were adjusting to the season-ending injury of 18 PPG guard Caris LeVert. Now they’ll face a well-rested Pacers team whom has not played since Sunday. Also factored into the point spread is the Pacers recent win in Miami. Look for the extended rest of the Pacers to boost the Heat in getting back into this game and covering the number. 

Typically in a neutral site tournament one will not see a high spread between two undefeated teams. Especially against a team such as Davidson that boasts several returning starters including do it all player Kellen Grady. Yet Davidson struggles with the half court defensive sets similar to the Boilermakers. Expect transition baskets and easy hoops for a well-coached Purdue team.

A continual problem for Northern Iowa in 2017 was their inability to score consistently. With a four-guard heavy lineup that can’t be the case. In their last game against the UT Arlington Mavericks they shot just 13 percent from three point range and 39 percent from the field. Tinkering with minutes and shot selection is going to be an in-season weekly adjustment. Look for Penn to capitalize on the early season matchup and take advantage of Northern Iowa’s rustiness.