Cairns Taipans vs Adelaide 36ers NBL Game Preview

Cairns Taipans vs Adelaide 36ers

The Adelaide 36ers are set to attack a depleted Cairns Taipans side, with the expectation that their offensive firepower will prove too much for the Taipans to handle. Montrezl Harrell’s inside presence will open up opportunities for Adelaide’s outside shooters like Dejan Vasiljevic and Kendrick Davis. With Cairns missing key point guards, Adelaide is poised to notch their first win of the season and put up a high score, building on their strong shooting from round 1.

Key Matchups

Montrezl Harrell vs. Cairns’ interior defence will be the most pivotal matchup. Harrell’s power in the paint will force the Taipans to focus on him, likely freeing up Adelaide’s perimeter shooters. Dejan Vasiljevic and Lat Mayen will look to exploit these opportunities and replicate their strong offensive performances from round 1.

Why Adelaide Wins

Adelaide boasts a well-rounded attack with the presence of Harrell inside and lethal outside shooters. They shot an incredible 61.5% from three-point range in round 1, and with Cairns struggling to find their rhythm without Taran Armstrong, the 36ers will exploit their opponent's defensive weaknesses. Adelaide’s ability to control the boards and force Cairns into low-percentage shots will further tip the scales in their favour.

Why Cairns Wins

For Cairns to have a chance, they need to get a boost from their returning players like Kyle Adnam and find their scoring touch after a poor shooting night against Illawarra. Their defensive efforts, especially in limiting second-chance points and rebounding, will be crucial. If Cairns can control the tempo and prevent Adelaide from dominating the paint, they might slow down the 36ers' offence enough to stay in the game.

Key Stats

• Adelaide shot 61.5% from three in their round 1 loss to Sydney.

• Cairns scored only 75 points in their round 1 game, the lowest of any team.

• Cairns gave up the most rebounds (55) in the opening round.

• Montrezl Harrell’s presence opened the floor for Adelaide’s top scorers, with Vasiljevic and Mayen both dropping 23 points each.

With Adelaide firing on all cylinders and Cairns struggling with injuries and offensive direction, the 36ers look set to claim their first win of the season. Harrell’s inside presence and Adelaide’s hot shooting from deep will likely be too much for a Taipans team that lacks depth and firepower, especially if their top guards remain sidelined.