Asvel vs Zalgiris: Analysis and Prediction – Asvel and Zalgiris will play an 19th round EuroLeague game in France.
Asvel vs Zalgiris Odds
Asvel Team News
Asvel is currently going through a significant crisis in terms of results. It’s not just about their 2-16 record in the EuroLeague so far, in their last ten games in all competitions, they have only won twice.
After a poor start to the season, they changed the coach, with T.J. Parker leaving and Gianmarco Pozzecco taking his place. The team showed a certain reaction to this change, but there are still many issues. The absence of the injured Nando de Colo is undoubtedly a big loss, but it cannot be an excuse for poor results. Joffrey Lauvergne is the only one consistently performing at a high level since the beginning of the season, and Mike Scott has shown that he can excel when he aligns with the team’s needs. A negative aspect is that there is speculation in the French media about whether coach Pozzecco will remain in his position, which is certainly not helpful at this moment.
If Asvel wants to overcome Zalgiris, they must battle not only on the court but also address these off-court issues. The key for them will be to finally unite as a team, show character not just for the coach but for themselves. They have previously won over Zalgiris, they know they can compete and win, and it’s up to them to use the home court as an additional boost at this crucial moment.
Zalgiris Team News
Looking at all competitions combined, Zalgiris has achieved a balanced record of 5-5 in their last ten games. Before the duel against Asvel, they secured a win against Alba Berlin at home, and their current EuroLeague record is 6-12.
Despite discussions about a coaching change, Kazys Maksvytis initially survived, with players rallying to support him. However, shortly afterward, he was indeed replaced, and Italian coach Andrea Trinchieri took over. On his debut in Kaunas, Zalgiris achieved a crucial win, indicating a noticeable response from the locker room and players. Keenan Evans, after returning from injury, reassumed the leadership role for the team. The team’s performance also heavily relies on Edgaras Ulanovas, and the return of Lukas Lekavicius to the court is promising, as he consistently contributes across various statistical categories.
For Zalgiris to secure a win against Asvel, it is crucial for them to display toughness on both ends of the court, especially defensively. They have shown capability in handling outside shooting, so the organization of play by Lekavicius and Evans will be significant factors. The team’s success largely depends on their performances, and if they can deliver, Zalgiris will be in a position to win.
Every day, “Basketball Sphere” provides all its readers with the best predictions for today’s games.
If you are reading our analysis for the first time, then it is important to mention that every day we also offer to our readers a “Acca of the Day” completely free.
Asvel vs Zalgiris H2H
Absences and Injuries
Asvel vs Zalgiris Prediction
Asvel is currently in poor form, as reflected in the results. There are ongoing discussions about a coaching change, and there might be some truth to them, especially considering the manner in which coach Pozzecco led the team against Partizan. Typically, he is actively involved throughout the entire 40 minutes on the sidelines, participating in the game. However, in Belgrade, he remained seated in his chair next to the bench the entire time. Such energy is certainly not positive for the locker room. With Zalgiris, hungry for better results and under a new coach, visiting them, we predict a win for the away team.
Tip-off Time: Thursday, 04.01.2024, 20:00 CET
Prediction: Zalgiris to win
Odds: 2.20
Sportsbook: 22Bet
*Odds are active at the time the article is published
We found the best odds for this game at the popular 22Bet sportsbook. You will get an attractive Welcome Bonus for all newly registered customers if you register today.