By Semih Altınbaş / info@eurohoops.net
An entirely different situation for the teams participating in the Basketball Champions League playoffs with a second group stage instead of one-on-one matchups. The format of the Regular Season was altered as well producing to its maximum potential and eventually advancing the 16 best teams into the playoffs. Action resumes tomorrow, Tuesday, with many under-the-radar players who could be the difference-makers in the next six games.
Eurohoops compiled a list containing the top ten players expected to leave their own mark on the Champions League playoffs. Our picks, presented in random order, are likely to make headlines moving towards the Final 8 and in the future.
Kristers Zoriks (VEF Riga)
Age: 22
Position: Guard
Stats: 6 GP | 14.2 PPG | 3.0 RPG | 2.0 APG | 56.2% 3PT
The young guard of VEF Riga, Kristers Zoriks was responsible for his side securing the playoff ticket with a clutch three against Peristeri in the final round of the Regular Season. He is among the players standing out in the squad and carries a ton of potential.
His creative abilities are limited playing alongside primary ball-handler Kyle Allman Jr. but his showings are still great. His overall style reminds Kevin Pangos. Fans should keep an eye on the Latvian sharpshooter.
Berkan Durmaz (Tofas)
Age: 24
Position: Forward
Stats: 6 GP | 8.5 PPG | 5.8 RPG | 2.2 APG | 45% 3PT
Berkan Durmaz has been around for some time, with Tofas since 2015. He has been improving every season. An extremely focused power forward and a valuable member of the Turkish club’s rotation, he greatly impacts games mainly through his long-range shots.
Jeremy Simmons, Tarik Phillip, and DeVaughn Akoon-Purcell dominate the plays set up by Hakan Demir, but his contribution often makes all the difference. Durmaz, through his defense as well, is more than capable to evolve his role in a greater capacity during the playoffs.