Gargzdai vs Zalgiris – Preview & Prediction: Gargzdai will play at home against Zalgiris in the Lithuanian League Round 1
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Gargzdai vs Zalgiris Preview
Gargzdai, like all teams in the domestic league last season, played without too much pressure, as they were aware that they could not be relegated, given that there were only nine teams in the league. Because of that lack of pressure, the team managed to play some really high-quality games and reached sixth place before the start of the playoffs. However, they were unable to put up serious resistance against Neptunas and were comfortably beaten in both games. Like most teams at this level, Gargzdai underwent major changes during the offseason, including a change of head coach, with Paulius Malaskauskas taking charge of the team this season. Practically all of the team’s key players from last season have left, with Justin Turner joining Karditsas in the Greek league, while Jalon Pipkins moved to Spartak Subotica. New players were brought in to replace them, but, as could be expected, they are not particularly big names. It is interesting that Gargzdai did not sign any players directly from college, as all of their new additions have experience playing in Europe, while some, such as Ben Krikke, have already played in Lithuania. Krikke in particular should be one of the team’s main pillars, as he had some notable performances last season while wearing the Jonava jersey. It will be interesting to see how Jaquan Carlos adapts, as the point guard averaged close to 20 points per game in the Finnish league last season and posted very good shooting percentages.
After struggling two seasons ago and only winning the title in the deciding game, last season was almost perfect for Zalgiris, at least when it comes to domestic competitions. They won the Lithuanian Cup and the domestic league, doing so in dominant fashion. During the league season, only Lietkabelis, and that was back in October, managed to beat them, while Zalgiris won all of their other games. Looking at the roster Zalgiris will have this season, it seems that this team could be even stronger than last season. Sylvain Francisco and Moses Wright were among the team’s best players last season, and their absence will certainly be felt, but more than capable replacements have been brought in. After spending 14 seasons in the NBA, Jonas Valanciunas is returning to Lithuania, and he should be the team’s main presence in the paint, with Marek Blazevic also expected to help him after having an excellent season with Tofas. Marius Grigonis has also returned to Lithuania after four seasons in which he did not get to play as much as he would have liked in a Panathinaikos jersey. Carsen Edwards was brought in as a direct replacement for Francisco and should take on a major role, particularly when it comes to scoring. Sterling Brown should provide significant help on the wing, while it will also be interesting to see how Saben Lee fits in. Among the returning players, Azuolas Tubelis should have the biggest role, as he has developed into one of the most consistent power forwards in the EuroLeague. Anything other than defending both domestic titles would be a considerable surprise for this team.
Claim Now Gargzdai vs Zalgiris H2H
Zalgiris won all eight games between these two teams.
Injuries and Suspensions
Saben Lee will miss the start of the season for Zalgiris. Marek Blazevic was out of the team for the last preseason game, which was played less than a week ago.
Where to Watch Gargzdai vs Zalgiris?
Gargzdai vs Zalgiris Best Betting Tip and Prediction
There is no need to talk about how much better Zalgiris are than their opponents in this game. During the preseason, they had very little trouble dealing with teams of similar quality to Gargzdai, so we believe the same will be the case this time. At the very start of the season, Zalgiris will want to send a clear message to their league rivals that they are the biggest favorites, and the best way to do that will be with a convincing win against the home team.
Tip-off Time: Thursday, 17.09.2026, 17:30 CET
Prediction: Zalgiris -17.5
Odds: 1.71
Stake: 1 Unit
Sportsbook: 22Bet
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