***BEST BET
Memphis over *Dallas by 3
The Mavs haven’t put away their weaker opponents at home. They have failed to cover the past eight times as a home favorite through Dec. 19. Among Dallas’ pointspread losers at home was a straight-up loss to the Warriors as 12 _-point favorites, a one- point overtime win against Charlotte and a two-point victory versus the 76ers. Memphis has come on going 9-7 following a 1-8 beginning. MEMPHIS 106-103.

***BEST BET
*Utah over Philadelphia by 18
This is Utah’s only home contest during an eight-game stretch. The Jazz had covered 10 of their first 15 in Salt Lake City. Carlos Boozer and Deron Williams have been playing at their All-Star levels. Allen Iverson is already banged-up and Elton Brand continues to disappoint. The 76ers figure to come in flat flying from the East Coast during Christmas break. UTAH 112-94.