Perth Wildcats vs Melbourne United Tips and Prediction
Perth return to RAC Arena for an elimination final and the Wildcats look well placed to bounce back after a disappointing showing against South East Melbourne.
Melbourne arrive on a short turnaround and with multiple injury concerns, which could make life difficult in one of the toughest road environments in the NBL.
How this game shapes up
Perth were well below their usual standards in the seeding qualifier against South East Melbourne.
Turnovers and shot differential were the biggest problems, with the Wildcats giving up far too many opportunities while struggling to generate consistent offence.
That type of performance is unlikely to be repeated at RAC Arena where Perth have won their last four games and traditionally lift in finals.
Melbourne advanced past Tasmania in the play-in game but arrive carrying injury concerns across several key players.
Chris Goulding, Shae Ili and Jesse Edwards all enter this matchup under an injury cloud, which could impact their ability to maintain intensity across the full 40 minutes.
Best Bets
Perth Wildcats -3.5
Perth have been strong at home and should respond after their poor performance against South East Melbourne. Melbourne’s injury concerns and short turnaround could make this a difficult road assignment.
Kristian Doolittle 20+ Points
Doolittle continues to lead Perth offensively and has scored 20 or more points in four of his last six games. His versatility makes him difficult to contain across four quarters.
What could go wrong?
Melbourne still have plenty of experience and if players like Finn Delany continue their strong form they can keep the game close.
And if Perth struggle again with turnovers, Melbourne could generate the extra possessions needed to steal the result.