I do have some thoughts itching to be laid out before you on this sizzling match-up between LDLC ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne and Maccabi Tel Aviv. Let's go on a quick trip down memory lane for just a minute, as our last rendezvous in the court saw Maccabi edging out an 8-point win over Lyon-Villeurbanne.
Hovering over the player stats, I spot two gentlemen from Lyon-Villeurbanne whose numbers I like, Joffrey Lauvergne and Paris Lee, both of whom had commendable stats last season. Unfortunately, their collective genius wasn't enough to save the team from a 9-25 record last season, landing them at a charming #17 in the standings. We can't turn a blind eye to their recent run of form which is a bit inconsistent, but they showed steel against Barça Basket and Valencia Basket.
Glancing across the court, Maccabi Tel Aviv has had a more impressive showing with a 20-14 record last season and sitting pretty at #7. Hand claps for Jordan Loyd and Tamir Blatt, who were on song with their performances last season. Has a little inconsistency bug bitten them, you might ask? Comparatively, it indeed seems so, with some recent tumbles against Panathinaikos BC.
Ah the beautiful game, with two teams entangled in inconsistency. Who do you root for, right? It's like choosing between burnt toast and soggy fries, but where's the fun if there's no risk involved? Weighing everything, I'd say Maccabi Tel Aviv has a slight edge and will grind it out, but not without a thumb-biting-end.
Albert’s Prediction: Maccabi Tel Aviv by 6