Cairns Taipans vs New Zealand Breakers NBL round 14 Game Preview
Tip-Off: 7:30 PM AEDT, December 31 | Cairns Convention Centre
Cairns Taipans vs New Zealand Breakers Expert Analysis
The Cairns Taipans and New Zealand Breakers are both desperate to halt dismal runs in this bottom-of-the-table clash. Cairns have lost 14 straight, while the Breakers are enduring an 8-game skid, compounded by the suspension of star guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright. With both teams struggling at both ends of the court, this matchup is a chance for either side to reclaim some pride.
Key Matchups
Rob Edwards vs. New Zealand’s Perimeter DefenceEdwards has been Cairns' primary scoring option, with three 20+ point games in his last four outings. Facing a Breakers defence ranked ninth in the league for opposition three-point percentage (37.5%), Edwards could find the space he needs to make a big impact from the outside.
Tanner Groves vs. New Zealand’s FrontcourtAfter an impressive showing against Melbourne, Tanner Groves will aim to build on his 20-point performance. His ability to score efficiently inside and grab boards will be crucial against a Breakers team ranked second-last in offensive rebounds per game (39.1).
Breakers’ Offence vs. Cairns DefenceWithout Parker Jackson-Cartwright, New Zealand’s offence looks even bleaker. Averaging just 84.0 points per game over their last eight matches, they’ll need other players to step up to avoid being overrun by a Cairns defence that, while not elite, has been slightly better than New Zealand’s offence in recent weeks.
Key Stats
New Zealand’s Defence: The Breakers have allowed an average of 103.3 points over their last eight games.
Rob Edwards' Form:Â Edwards has scored 20+ points in three of his last four games.
Cairns’ Shooting Woes: The Taipans shot 34.9% from the field, 28.1% from three, and 61.9% from the free-throw line in their last game.
New Zealand’s Offence: The Breakers rank last in the league for three-point shooting at 30.9%.
Why Cairns Will Win
The Taipans have the perfect opportunity to end their 14-game skid against a Breakers side missing their most important player and struggling on both ends of the floor. Rob Edwards’ ability to exploit New Zealand’s weak perimeter defence, combined with Tanner Groves’ recent form, gives Cairns the edge. Additionally, New Zealand’s inability to score consistently without Parker Jackson-Cartwright leaves them vulnerable.
Why New Zealand Will Win
Despite their current form, the Breakers can draw confidence from their last win, which came against Cairns. If their role players step up and they find a way to limit Cairns' already inconsistent offence, New Zealand could sneak a win. Strong interior defence and a focused effort on Edwards and Groves will be essential to securing the victory.
Conclusion
Both teams are in dire need of a win, but Cairns are better placed to snap their losing streak in this matchup. With New Zealand missing their star guard and struggling to generate offence, the Taipans’ Rob Edwards and Tanner Groves have the chance to shine. Expect Cairns to capitalise on the Breakers’ defensive lapses and finally notch a win.
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