Zhejiang Guangsha Lions by 12
From the first glance at the upcoming clash between Shandong Heroes and Zhejiang Guangsha Lions, it's quite evident that the Lions have the upper hand, and I don't really need to get my glasses checked to confirm that.
Now, let's take a minute to examine the finer strokes in this picture. Players stats, you asked? Bringing the exciting stats for Shandong Heroes, or rather the lack of it. We've got Shiyan Gao, Jarmar Gulley, Peidong Chen, and a couple of other Heroes who - to put it tactfully - have been playing invisible basketball for a while. Now isn't that something? Even Who Needs Stats McGee must be shaking in his boots.
On the other side of the court, Zhejiang Guangsha Lions have also pulled a disappearing act in terms of stats, with Barry Brown, Junlong Zhu, and Minghui Sun keeping the scorekeepers unoccupied. However, from the ashes of missing stats arises Wang Xinrui, with a staggering 3.1 points per game and 1 rebound per game from the last season. Sounds like someone's getting a lifetime achievement award.
Regular season records show Shandong at a modest 1-1 while Zhejiang gallops ahead with a perfect 2-0. The recent results don't paint a Mona Lisa for Heroes either, with defeats heavily outnumbering their victories. The Lions, on the other hand, are roaring with recent successes.
Peering into the history book between these two teams, it appears the Lions have enjoyed a steak dinner at Heroes' expense. They've chomped down the victories in their last three encounters. In terms of position in the standings, our Heroes are hanging in there at 9th place while the Lions are comfortably perched at 7th place.
Considering all this, it appears the Heroes might have to look for redemption on another day. The wisdom of the Sports Commentator Association (and every sane bettor) suggests the Lions are the clear favorites to keep their pride intact in the upcoming game.
Albert’s Prediction: Zhejiang Guangsha Lions by 12