The Friday Fast Break: Week 8

Melbourne v Sydney (Friday, Melbourne -3.5)
What an ugly looking game now Patty Mills has fled the NBL for the big money of the Chinese Basketball Association. The Tigers have been somewhat lacklustre over the last three weeks, going 2-2 but defeating Perth at home last week. Depth is a major issue for the Tigers but for the Kings, it is class and touch with the Kings’ only three wins coming against the only two teams below them on the ladder. The Tigers won comfortably last time and despite the loss of Mills, should get the points again.

Adelaide v Gold Coast (Saturday, Adelaide Pick)
There is a definite bet here with the Blaze. Gold Coast his the road for the first time in a month after consecutive home wins. Their road form has been scratchy at best this year but I remain sceptical about the Sixers and how good they actually are. A home defeat of the Tigers has done little to change my thinking. The Blaze rarely win in Adelaide but if they are legitimate title contenders – and I think they are – then they have to win this weekend.

Perth v Sydney (Sunday, Perth -12)
The Kings complete a two-game road trip weekend in Perth and are staring down the barrel of an old-fashioned hammering. The Wildcats just have too much depth for the Kings. Julian Khazzou is Sydney’s strength but he comes up against the quality Matt Knight while the likes of Kevin Lisch, Shawn Redhage and Damian Martyn have too many points in them for Sydney. Perth by plenty.

Recommended Bets
Gold Coast at $1.91 at Centrebet