In the last round, Valencia led Olympiacos by 28 points but somehow let victory slip away in overtime (97:102). This was the second-largest comeback in EuroLeague history. Valencia now face Maccabi Tel Aviv, who are also going through a difficult spell: the Israeli team have lost four of their five matches and sit 18th in the standings.
Valencia
Despite the collapse against Olympiacos, Valencia still boast the best offence in the EuroLeague — they average 100.4 points per game and have never scored fewer than 93. Star signings Nikola Mirotic and T J Shorts are enjoying excellent seasons: both scored in double figures in the defeat to the Greek team. There are no absentees, allowing Javier Albert to use his full rotation. Valencia traditionally play aggressively at home, and their motivation to make amends for that historic collapse should be immense. The home team have won seven of the last eight head-to-head meetings.
Maccabi Tel Aviv
The Israeli heavyweights are going through a difficult period. In the last round, Maccabi Tel Aviv lost to Barcelona (87:90), despite an outstanding performance from Yam Madar — 22 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists. However, his teammates offered little support: among the starting five, only Iffe Lundberg (13 points) performed well, while Jaylen Hoard, Oshae Brissett and Roman Sorkin struggled (13 points between them). Maccabi concede an average of 90.4 points per game, leaving their defence vulnerable against the competition's best offence. The visitors have no absentees, but morale leaves much to be desired after four defeats in five games.
Valencia vs Maccabi Tel Aviv Prediction
Valencia are struggling in the Spanish league, but have looked almost flawless on the international stage, recording emphatic double-digit wins over Baskonia and Hapoel Tel Aviv and leading the competition in average points scored. Maccabi Tel Aviv are not known for reliable defence, and containing Valencia's attacking pressure will be extremely difficult.
