Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Liga ACB match.
The Liga Endesa playoffs tip off today, with second-seed Valencia Basket taking on seventh-seed Dreamland Gran Canaria. On paper, the matchup looks straightforward, but it’s worth noting that Gran Canaria have come out on top in three of their last five meetings with Valencia — ruling them out too early would be a mistake.
Valencia Basket
Valencia enter the playoffs in strong form and high spirits, having won four straight — including victories over both Gran Canaria (86:79) and La Laguna Tenerife (102:99). As usual, Jean Claudio Montero has been a model of consistency, averaging 18 points per game during this stretch. Just as importantly, he now has extra support. Christopher Jones is adding 11.8 points and 4.3 assists per game, while Senegalese guard Brancou Badio is red-hot, contributing an impressive 16.5 points.
Dreamland Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria, by contrast, have faded badly as the season draws to a close. They’ve lost six of their last 12, and not just to top-tier sides. The offence has been alarmingly inconsistent — as seen in the final round against mid-table Murcia (69:76). In that game, Gran Canaria managed only 57 field-goal attempts and handed out just 10 assists. Simply put, with an attack that blunt, they’re not built to last in the playoffs.
Valencia Basket vs Dreamland Gran Canaria Prediction
Valencia beat Gran Canaria by seven in their most recent encounter, but this time the stakes are even higher. The home crowd will be louder, the motivation even stronger. Ultimately, Valencia’s superior quality will shine through, and the visitors are unlikely to put up much resistance — especially away from home.
