By Stathis Trapezanlidis/ info@eurohoops.net
Heading into the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season Round 5 severely impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and postponed games as ALBA Berlin, LDLC ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne, and Zenit Saint-Petersburg failed to meet player requirements due to positive COVID-19 cases. The remaining schedule features plenty of interesting betting options. Below our initial take on the upcoming action.
Khimki Moscow Region – Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv 2 / 1.86
Team itching to get back on the win column. The Russian side shorthanded maybe was expected to drop some games, but Maccabi did not go through similar issues. Giannis Sfairopoulos’ side is coming off three straight defeats but can bounce back if determined enough in Russia. If teams all around the field were in better shape, we would place an even larger bet, but the column still holds this team in high regard. The hosts have players, including Alexey Shved, returning to action, but are struggling through early-season woes.
We quickly claimed good value on the win for the Israeli powerhouse. At this point, we advise a bet live during the contest, if you didn’t join in on time. At 1.60, I don’t consider it a good value any longer. Predictions in the balanced EuroLeague field can be tricky. Every team deserves our respect.
Zalgiris Kaunas – Valencia U 157.5 / 1.71
Moving on to two sides effective in defense and clearly focused on that exact task. Previous encounters feature high-scoring affairs but did not prevent me from betting on the under set at 157.5 points. I consider this line high enough for this game.
Betting on the Spanish outlet accompanied by a handicap presents betting value as well, but early impressive outings produced by Zalgiris hold me back. The Lithuanian club assisted by its home crowd expected to consist of 5,000 fans this week looks very strong and capable to prevail against any side, as proven last week versus Anadolu Efes.
Panathinaikos OPAP – Fenerbahce Beko 2 (-2) / 1.73, U 159.5 / 1.71
Despite the hosts earning my respect in the young 2020-21 campaign, I can’t ignore the Turkish side, especially with Ioannis Papapetrou sidelined. I really like Fener in spite of its recent home loss to FC Bayern Munich. A new situation with plenty of fresh players prompts various expected issues, but the Turkish outlet still stands out for me.
Prior to Papapetrou confirmed out, the under at 159.5 was among my tips. We have two teams happy to rely on defense. After the tip-off, we will see the effect of the captain missing on the Greens and their defense. He is a player that covers for teammates and brings energy to that end of the court.
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