South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Melbourne United Prediction, Tips & Odds – Nov. 19, 2022 07:30 CET
Second Throwdown of the NBL23 season will be played at John Cain Arena on Saturday afternoon.
We found the best odds for this game at the popular Bet365 sportsbook. You will get an attractive Welcome Bonus for all newly registered customers if you register today. Check our article if you wonder how to claim this Bet365 Welcome Bonus.
South East Melbourne Phoenix Team News
The South East Melbourne Phoenix can´t take a lot of positives from their Thursday´s loss in Perth. Since there was a prolonged break, the Phoenix were expected to step up defensively and show championship form at RAC Arena, but the Wildcats were the ones who were running the show.
The Phoenix have now conceded 100+ points in their last two games, which means they will have to make some instant adjustments on the defensive end if they want to stay in the game today.
In difference to the first Throwdown clash of the season, this time they should be able to count on their veterans Kyle Adnam and Ryan Broekhoff, while Qi Zhou will remain sidelined.
Melbourne United Team News
Two days ago United had a chance to prove to their fans they are serious this season, but simply couldn´t keep up with the 36ers. With their new import still unavailable and Shea Ili watching the game from the stands, Adelaide never allowed United to get back into the game in the second half, coming away with a crucial 91:86 victory.
Today´s cross-town derby marks the debut of United´s new foreign reinforcement Marcus Lee, who will probably see limited minutes, but should still make an impact. Shea Ili will probably still remain out, but that shouldn´t prevent Melbourne from keeping the game competitive with their new rim protector and frontcourt presence.
South East Melbourne Phoenix vs. Melbourne United Prediction
Phoenix´s defensive woes can´t be resolved in a short period of time, so today´s game could transpose into a high-scoring shootout. However, we decided to stay away from totals and went for the United spread.
We expect a solid role from the former All-American Marcus Lee, which should be enough to make the game interesting and keep United alive until the end. United´s frontcourt is in desperate need of a new big man, so this roster change should kick-start Melbourne´s season.
Kick-off time: Saturday, 19.11.2022 07:30 CET
Prediction: Alternative Point Spread – Melbourne United (+5.0)
Odds: 1.80
Sportsbook: bet365
