Paris Basketball-Real Madrid: first of four straight away games in EuroLeague

Scariolo’s team is aiming for their seventh straight win in the competition tonight at 8:45 PM CET.

 

Real Madrid is entering a crucial phase in the EuroLeague, facing four consecutive away games within a 17-day span against Paris Basketball, Panathinaikos, Dubai Basketball, and Partizan, along with two home league matches against Casademont Zaragoza and Coviran Granada. As they visit the French team on matchday 25, Real Madrid seeks to extend their current six-game winning streak and is just one victory shy of claiming the top spot.

 

Scariolo’s squad will be tested on their impressive form. They have secured victories in their last eight matches across both the league and the EuroLeague, remaining unbeaten in European play throughout January. Together with Fenerbahce, they hold the best record in the last ten games (8-2). The challenge begins with Paris Basketball, known for their unique playing style, especially following their 20-point loss to Dubai Basketball at home.

 

In their previous encounter, Real Madrid triumphed 95-90, with the game decided in the final quarter. Maledon, who will be sidelined today due to injury, played a key role in that victory with 21 points at the Movistar Arena. However, the team has strong depth, particularly with Lyles, who has been averaging 18.5 points and 26 in PIR during the last week’s games against Milan and Monaco, showcasing impressive shooting with 52.6% against Monaco and 57.1% against Milan. The home team has been allowing an average of 92 points per game.

 

Defense is more crucial than ever

The real differentiator will be the defense, which must maintain its strong performance against Paris Basketball. The French team plays at a fast pace with numerous possessions, utilizing three-point shooting and offensive rebounding, the latter being their top strength in the league. Real Madrid has improved defensively, conceding an average of 72 points in their last three wins (61 to Barcelona, 77 to Milan, and 78 to Monaco, who have the best offense in the EuroLeague). This matchup marks the fifth meeting between the two teams, with Real Madrid leading 3-1. Tonight, they aim for another win to close out the first month of competition this year.