The undefeated and rested Perth Wildcats host the struggling Townsville Crocodiles at the Perth Arena in Round 3 of the 2015-16 NBL season. Join The Roar from 9:30pm (AEDT) for live scores and commentary.
The Wildcats are looking to keep their winning streak and impressive start to the season going.
While they have only played two games to date – beating the 36ers on the road and the Breakers at home – this means they are fresh and go into this game mainly free of injuries.
Meanwhile, the Crocodiles lost to Cairns Taipans and Melbourne United in the past week and are desperate for a win. In stark contrast to the Wildcats, the Crocodiles have now played five games – their last, on Wednesday night against United, a blowout loss 90-58.
It was the Crocodiles’ second loss to Melbourne this season, while they have also lost to the New Zealand Breakers. Their lone win coming against the Sydney Kings.
The Crocs need big games from their big three – Brian Conklin, Jordair Jett and Clint Steindl. Steindl is averaging 14.7 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, Jett 12.7 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists, and Conklin at 16 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2 assists.
The Wildcats welcome back captain Damien Martin for the first time this year. In his absence they have been well led by Jermaine Beal, who has 18.5 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists per game, Nathan Jawai 8.5 points, 5 rebounds and 2.5 assists, along with Matthew Knight who has 10 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists per game.
The Wildcats hold a large advantage in the recent history between the two sides, winning four of their last five games. It hasn’t been close either, winning by an average of 11 points.
Prediction
The Wildcats should be way to strong for the struggling Crocodiles.
Wildcats by 10 points.
Join The Roar for live coverage of this clash from 9:30pm (AEDT) and don’t forget to leave a comment if you’re following along with the action.
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