Why there are NIT games Friday opposite the Big Dance is beyond me, but this suddenly has value because Ole Miss -- which probably has no interest in the NIT regardless after being an NCAA Tournament snub -- will be without one key player for sure and perhaps its best one. Rebs forward KJ Buffen (8.4 ppg, 4.5 rpg) has opted out, while All-SEC guard Devontae Shuler is on personal leave -- he hasn't been 100 percent ruled out yet. Shuler leads Ole Miss in scoring (15.3 ppg) and assists (3.3 apg). Frankly, Louisiana Tech may have covered this number regardless but now definitely should (and may win outright).

Ole Miss isn't excited to be in the NIT after its bubble burst. The Rebels face a tough defensive team in Louisiana Tech and shouldn't be laying so many points, given recent developments. Junior forward KJ Buffen just opted out of the NIT, and All-SEC point guard Devontae Shuler might miss the game as well due to a family situation. Grab the points.