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After experiencing two consecutive losses in the EuroLeague, Alba Berlin managed to bounce back in their domestic league, securing an impressive victory against Rasta Vechta with a final score of 98:80.
The upcoming season is shaping up to be quite challenging for Alba Berlin, particularly in the EuroLeague. With the departure of key players like Maodo Lo and Luke Sikma, a decline in performance was expected. Their EuroLeague performance has indeed been subpar thus far. While all players deserve respect, relying on Matt Thomas as the leading scorer in the EuroLeague highlights significant issues. The team is in dire need of a consistent 15 to 20 points per game scorer, and at the moment, they lack a player who fits that description. Sterling Brown is still acclimating, and until he finds his groove, the team will encounter substantial difficulties.
They are now preparing to face one of the top-tier teams in the EuroLeague. The only chance for the home team to secure a victory is by adopting a fast-paced style with an emphasis on running and transition plays, capitalizing on early offensive opportunities. Failing to do so would significantly diminish their prospects for a win, especially in a game that revolves around a half-court, positional style of basketball.
Alba Berlin is dealing with several player absences, including long-term injuries to Marcus Eriksson and Yannick Wetzel. Khalifa Koumadje has been missing from the team's lineup in recent matches, and Matt Thomas also sat out the last league game. Although Nikola Mirotic was absent in the previous game, he is expected to return for this one, and there are hopes of Maodo Lo making a comeback to the lineup.
This matchup will showcase a clash between two entirely different basketball systems and philosophies. Alba Berlin places a strong emphasis on transition offense and early attacks, while their opponents favor a slower, half-court game with a 5-on-5 approach.
Similar to their rivals in this game, Milan has faced ongoing struggles since the beginning of this season. They have found it challenging to string together a series of positive outcomes and victories, enduring numerous losses, including surrendering the Italian Super Cup earlier in the season.
In their most recent match, Milan achieved a victory on the road against Tortona, one of the top Italian teams. It's worth noting that this triumph occurred away from their home court, and they managed it even without Nikola Mirotic, who was rested following a demanding double round in the EuroLeague. Mirotic has undeniably been the standout player for Milan this season, especially when paired with the impressive Shavon Shields, who, together, might be considered the best forward duo in Europe. Additionally, the return of Maodo Lo to the lineup is anticipated for this upcoming game.
Our belief is that Milan holds a notably stronger position compared to the hosts, and they are likely to showcase their superiority in this match. On occasion, this team exhibits top-tier performance, particularly when their defense operates at its highest level. If they can sustain this level of play for two quarters, it should be sufficient to secure a victory in Berlin.
Statistics indicate that Alba Berlin struggles to secure victories, with a mere 0% success rate, ranking 17th in the table. They've encountered consecutive losses, totaling four, and have rarely tasted victory, winning zero times. It remains to be seen whether the club can earn points and distance itself from the last position.
Olimpia Milano has posted underwhelming results, facing significant challenges on both ends of the court and demonstrating vulnerability against their opponents. They have suffered two losses and managed one win, resulting in a 33.3% victory rate and a 12th position in the table. However, they still possess the potential to enhance their performance, and the key lies in realizing that potential. The upcoming matches will reveal their ability to do so.
