In Piraeus, Olympiacos and Monaco face off in the second game of their playoff series.
On Wednesday, the Greek side prevailed easily (71-54). Georgios Bartzokas’ team performed great defensively, forcing Monaco to score 30 points less than they were averaging in the regular season.
The “Reds” were also focused offensively after a problematic first quarter (8-15).
Players like Kostas Sloukas (10 points, 6 assists), Thomas Walkup (11 points, 4 steals) and Georgios Printezis (12 points, 100% shot percentage) contributed a lot in the team’s effort.
On the other hand, Monaco has to forget Game 1 as soon as possible in order to stand a chance in Final Four qualification.
Head coach Sasa Obradovic told reporters after the game that “we could do better, though it wasn’t that bad, but we have to do much better offensively.”
Star player Mike James was limited to 10 points, with 28.6% from the perimeter (2/7).
I think that Game 2 will not be different in terms of defense from both teams.
My prediction is that Olympiacos and Monaco will commit more than 23 turnovers in total (odds at 1.65). They have done so in Game 1 (26).
Safe bet: Over 23.5 turnovers (1.65)
At Wizink Center, Real Madrid seeks its second victory against Maccabi Tel Aviv. In Game 1 (84-74), the Spanish side was better in every statistic category (expect total rebounds).
Fabien Causeur scored 20 points while Nigel Williams-Goss put up a solid performance (11 points, 4 rebounds, 8 assists).
Head coach Pablo Laso said after the game that “the help of our fans was key. I can only thank them and hope for them to be back in Game 2. We need them.”
On the other hand, this was Maccabi’s first defeat in seven Euroleague games.
For his part, Scottie Wilbekin contributed the most for the Israeli side (20 points, 21 PIR).
However, the whole team has to improve offensively.
I think Maccabi has the ability to “break” the home-court advantage, should they remain focused for 40 minutes.
My prediction is that, even Real Madrid wins tonight, the handicap of +5.5 will not be covered (odds at 2.05).
My fun bet for this game will be Maccabi to win tonight (odds at 3.35).
Value bet: Maccabi +5.5 (2.05)
Fun bet: Maccabi win (3.35)
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