Since the Olympic break, both defenses have stepped up their game, and the Aces, in particular, have been playing at a much slower pace. This shift has led to some strong trends toward the under.

From a trend perspective, the Aces are 8-1 to the under in the first half since the break, including a perfect 4-0 to the under when on the road. This points to a strong likelihood of another low-scoring first half, especially in a game that is expected to have a playoff-like atmosphere with a defensive, slow-paced battle between two championship contenders.

In their last meeting, these teams combined for just 73 points in the first half, and I anticipate a similar outcome tonight. I’m like the first-half under once again.