By Lefteris Moutis/ moutis@eurohoops.net
The playoffs race is heating up and that’s why the teams which don’t want to be left out, need to get at least home wins. That means that Panathinaikos and Zalgiris need to step up.
Khimki Moscow Region – Fenerbahce BEKO U158.5 / 1.70
Fenerbahce is hot, however, it’s just a matter of time for things to slow down and eventually a defeat may come. After all, the team of coach Obradovic will remain on top of the standings, even if they get defeated in one game and the truth is that in the BSL games they have proven to be vulnerable. Khimki despite the absences of Gill and Sved remains respectable on the court and has found ways to be dangerous despite missing two starts. That’s why the under 158.5 points seems possible.
Panathinaikos OPAP – Bayern Munich 1 /1/ 1.57
Panathinaikos simply has to win, because one more home defeat will be a great blow for their playoffs chances. That’s why, despite the might of Bayern, this seems like a game that the Greens simply will not lose, even if they are still missing Keith Langford and Thanasis Antetokounmpo. And we expect them to get the lead early on and never lose it.
AX Armani Exchange Olimpia Milan – FC Barcelona Lassa 2 (+4.5) / 1.75
It’s a very important game for the two teams since they have the same goals and almost the same record. That’s why we expect a real fight and a close game. Picking the handicap of Barcelona, meaning a road win, or a defeat by four and a half or fewer points it’s an expected and safe choice, which can be rewarded.
Zalgiris Kaunas – Anadolu Efes 1 / 1.57
It’s one more fight that can be crucial for the playoffs chances of both teams and especially for Zalgiris. The addition of Deon Thompson is expected to give balance to Zalgiris’ game and there’s a sense of urgency in Kaunas that may not apply to Efes. That explains our pick.
PICKS
Zalgiris – Efes 1 / 1.57
Milan – Barcelona 2 (+4.5) / 1.75
Panathinaikos – Bayern Munich 1/1 / 1.57
Khimki – Fenerbahce U158.5 / 1.70