DrinkWise Preview: NBL23 - Round 8, v Tasmania JackJumpers

Written by Melbourne United Media

Melbourne United are set to celebrate their amazing fans on Saturday evening when they host the Tasmania JackJumpers for the Member Appreciation Game.

In front of a packed house at John Cain Arena, Melbourne will be out for a measure of revenge over the JJs, who have won the past three times the two teams squared up.

As the half-way point of the season fast approaches, a win would be huge for United, who could rise to as high as sixth on the ladder with a victory depending on other results.

For Tasmania, a return to their form from a few weeks ago is crucial, as the team have dropped three of their past four games.

PLAYER TO WATCH

While Melbourne weren’t able to come away with a win across its two games in Round 7, import guard Rayjon Tucker appeared to find his scoring groove.

Tucker attacked from all over the court, averaging 22.5 points while knocking down nearly 54% of his threes and 89% of his free-throws, while only committing a pair of turnovers.

Needing an offensive punch to complement United’s other weapons like Chris Goulding, Xavier Rathan-Mayes and Isaac Humphries, look for Tucker to remain aggressive against the JJs swarming defence.

KEY MATCHUP

One of the most important pieces for Tasmania all season has been the energetic play of Rashard Kelly, who has buoyed the side with his effort on the glass.

After a 13-point, 12-rebound performance the first time Tassie faced United, you can expect Melbourne’s coaching staff to assign some extra attention to the American forward.

Enter Mason Peatling, who made his return from knee surgery in Round 7.

Known league-wide for his effort and toughness, expect United’s workhorse to battle hard with Kelly all game to limit his opportunities on the offensive glass.

THE OTHER GUYS

Just what lineup Tasmania will bring to John Cain Arena remains to be seen, with import guard Milton Doyle and Jarrod Weeks’ availability still up in the air after suffering leg injuries, and Matt Kenyon out with a calf injury.

Thankfully for the JJs, the return of Clint Steindl and Will Magnay will give the visitors a boost in the frontcourt to help support the likes of Jack McVeigh and Josh Magette.

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GAME INFO

Who: Melbourne United vs Tasmania JackJumpers

Tip off: 8pm (AEDT), Saturday 26 November, 2022

Where: John Cain Arena, Melbourne

Watch: ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel

Listen: Cluch Radio