By Lefteris moutis/ moutis@eurohoops.net
Most EuroLeague games are decided in the details and this is what is expected to happen in all three of tonight’s games, although Crvena Zvezda and Darussafaka seem like they have a small advantage for the win.
Zalgiris – Darussafaka
Zalgiris have celebrated just one win in the competition (over Baskonia) and they are surely ambitious in the third consecutive game at home in Kaunas. The Lithuanians are going to try to keep the tempo and the score down and to limit Darussafaka, who have a better roster. The Turks have a 2-2 record, with all their games being decided in the details. Something similar is expected to occur in Kaunas. Darussafaka, though, have an advantage for the win and since the handicap is small ((1,5 @Stoiximan 1,73), we are going to bet on the talent of Blatt’s players.
Efes managed to get their first win in the EuroLeague in last week’s Turkish derby against Darussafaka, while Panathinaikos have had a much better start with a 3-1 record. Xavi Pascual has brought an air of optimism but still hasn’t changed the Greens’ game enough. Efes have the roster and the quality to make things difficult for Panathinaikos, but it looks like the visitors might have a small advantage if Jayson Granger is absent. The participation of the Uruguayan is uncertain. If he plays, then Panathinaikos will have a problem stopping him and Heurtel, especially when they have numerical issues in the backcourt. This game is going to be decided at the last moment, so it’s better to avoid this one.
Crvena Zvezda have shown positive things in this year’s EuroLeague with a 2-2 record and in Belgrade they always have an extra advantage for the win. Baskonia have the same record, also making a positive impression with their image. However, they will once again be called upon to play without Andrea Bargnani for the third game day in a row after the win over Real and the defeat by Olympiacos. But Hanga’s possible absence might be more damaging as he’s coming back from an injury and if he plays he’s not going to be 100%. The Basques don’t have great depth on their bench and will probably lose in Belgrade (-2,5 @Sportingbet 1,82).
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