Paris Basketball-Real Madrid: first of four straight away games in EuroLeague
Scariolo's side are looking for their seventh consecutive victory in this competition (8:45pm CET).
Real Madrid face an important period in the EuroLeague with four straight away games in the next 17 days (Paris Basketball, Panathinaikos, Dubai Basketball and Partizan), and in between two league games at home against Casademont Zaragoza and Coviran Granada. Tonight, they visit the French team on matchday 25 with the aim of extending their streak of six consecutive victories and continuing their pursuit of the lead, from which they are only one win behind.
Scariolo's side will be facing a test of their excellent form. They have won their last eight games in the league and EuroLeague and are unbeaten in European competition in January. Along with Fenerbahce, they boast the best record in the last 10 rounds (8-2). Now comes one of the most demanding moments of the season. The first obstacle will be Paris Basketball, whose unique style of play always makes them tough opponents, especially after losing by 20 points at home to Dubai Basketball.
In the reverse fixture, Real Madrid won 95-90, in a game that was decided in the last quarter. Maledon, who will be absent today due to injury, was the driving force behind the win at the Movistar Arena with 21 points. But our team possesses a great depth of depth with Lyles leading the way. The Canadian averaged 18.5 points and 26 in PIR in last week's wins against Milan and Monaco. He is also shooting very well from long distance with 52.6% shooting against Monaco and 57.1% against Milan. The home side are conceding an average of 92 points per game.
Defence, stronger than ever
But the real difference is the defence and against Paris Basketball it is essential to show the same level of the previous days. The French play at high tempo, with great speed and a lot of possessions. Their greatest assets are the three-pointer and offensive rebounding, the latter being the leading aspect of the competition. Real Madrid have improved their performance at the back and have averaged 72 points conceded in their last three victories (61 Barcelona, 77 Milan and 78 Monaco, the best offense in the EuroLeague). This will be the fifth time the two teams have met. The Whites command a 3-1 lead. Tonight, the team will be looking for a new victory to close the first month of competition of the year.