The NBL's most dominant team is back in action once again this Friday, as Melbourne United travel to Tasmania to take on the JackJumpers.
Two of the league's top teams, this matchup may be more one-sided than it seems, with Tasmania currently on a horror slide, while United have maintained top spot all season.
MORE: Menulog is serving up FREE* Delivery with Hungry Jack’s orders over $15 on Friday Nights
Can the JackJumpers get back on track, or will it be another win for this United outfit?
Tasmania JackJumpers vs Melbourne United prediciton
- Prediction: Melbourne United to win
Despite some uncharacteristic losses in recent weeks to Adelaide and Cairns, United have remained the high-water mark of this NBL season, sitting comfortably in first place with a 2.5-win buffer.
An incredibly deep team, Melbourne have proven they can beat you in a multitude of different ways, and they will no doubt be licking their lips coming into this game.
It was a tough last round for the JackJumpers, losing by three to Brisbane, before being outlasted by Illawarra in a double-overtime thriller.
Going 4-6 over their last 10 games, and winning only one of their last four, the vibes are not looking good on the Apple Isle, and United will walk out of there with a win on Friday.
Tasmania JackJumpers vs Melbourne United key matchup
- Key matchup: Jordan Crawford vs Matthew Dellavedova
With two teams as deep as these, it's hard to pick just one matchup, but the clash of the point guards is likely to dictate much of the game.
On one side is Jordan Crawford, the pocket-rocket who has been an offensive dynamo for Tasmania.
Facing off against him is Matthew Dellavedova, the Melbourne United veteran and former NBA cult hero, a huge part of United's success.
Can Delly keep Crawford in check? Can Crawford keep up with him? The outcome of this battle could decide the entire game.
Tasmania JackJumpers vs Melbourne United player to watch
- Player to watch: Luke Travers
After missing time due to an ankle injury, Luke Travers returned to Melbourne's lineup last round and made an immediate impact, 13 points and 11 rebounds off the bench, as well as two assists and two blocks.
On the season, the two-way wing is averaging 12.6 points and 7.7 rebounds, and is looking like one of the best signings of the NBL off-season.
If Travers can contribute another performance here, it will be huge for Melbourne, especially considering they will be without former MVP candidate Jo Lual-Acuil.
When is Tasmania JackJumpers vs Melbourne United?
The Tasmania JackJumpers host Melbourne United on Friday, January 19, at MyState Bank Arena in Tasmania.
The game is set to tip off at 7:30 pm AEDT.
How to watch Tasmania JackJumpers vs Melbourne United
The Friday night clash between the JackJumpers and United will be shown live on ESPN, via Foxtel.
MORE: Menulog is serving up FREE* Delivery with Hungry Jack’s orders over $15 on Friday Nights
The game can also be streamed on Kayo.
| TV Channel | ESPN |
| Streaming | Kayo |
*Available on Friday, 5-10pm until 18th February 2024. Participating stores only. Min spend $15. Service fees apply
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