DrinkWise Preview: Round 21 v Tasmania JackJumpers

Written by Melbourne United Media

Melbourne United are set for their final game of the NBL22 regular season, a road matchup with a Tasmania JackJumpers side potentially fighting for their playoff lives.

United are the league’s hottest team, having won their past five games by an average margin of 12.2 points.

This form has helped Melbourne secure top-spot on the ladder for the second consecutive season, a feat that hasn’t been achieved in nearly a decade.

For Tasmania, their entire season could come down to Saturday night’s contest, depending on the result of the Perth v Illawarra game on Friday.

PLAYER TO WATCH

No United player has taken advantage of the JJs undermanned front-line quite like Jo Lual-Acuil Jr.

The big-man has feasted on his post touches against Tasmania this season, averaging 22.5 points and 14.5 rebounds on 61% shooting from the field.

JLA, who was recently revealed as a finalist for both the Andrew Gaze MVP Award and Most Improved Player Award, recorded just the third 20-20 game of the 40-minute era in his last meeting with the JJs.

Look for United to feed Big Jo early and often on Saturday night.

KEY MATCHUP

We’re set for a matchup of the league’s best defender and one of its most explosive scorers on Saturday night, as Shea Ili and Josh Adams take the floor.

Adams has had success attacking United’s defence so far this season, averaging 19.5 points per game in his two games against the defending champions.

Staying in front of the athletic import and forcing him to be a passer will be a priority for Melbourne.

On the other end, if Ili can continue his recent run of hot form (2.7 steals per game, 40% shooting from beyond the arc over his past six games), United will be poised for a sixth consecutive win.

THE OTHER GUYS

In their hunt for a spot in the Hungry Jack’s NBL Finals, Tasmania’s depth has shone through.

Josh Magette remains one of the best facilitators in the league, while the threat of his three-point shot will keep Melbourne honest.

Also dangerous on the perimeter are Clint Steindl and Jack McVeigh, who both rank in the top-15 for three-pointers made this season.

Inside, MiKyle McIntosh has shown an ability to use his side to make an impact in the paint, while Fabijan Krslovic has established himself as one of the league’s offensive rebounders.

GAME INFO

Who: Melbourne United vs Tasmania JackJumpers

Tip off: 5.30pm (AEST), Saturday 23 April, 2022

Where: MyState Bank Arena, Glenorchy

Watch: Australia - ESPN via Kayo and Foxtel. International - NBL YouTube