New Zealand Breakers vs Cairns Taipans NBL25 Game Preview

Jan 30

2 min read

Tip-off is at 5:30 PM AEDT, Saturday, February 1 at Spark Arena

New Zealand Breakers vs Cairns Taipans NBL25 Game Preview

The Cairns Taipans will look to continue their late-season resurgence when they face the struggling New Zealand Breakers on Saturday.

The Taipans have hit their best form of the season with three wins from their last four games, including upsets over top contenders Illawarra and Perth. With their finals hopes already dashed, Cairns have embraced a free-flowing, pressure-free style that is disrupting teams still in the hunt.

New Zealand, on the other hand, have failed to find the same motivation, losing seven of their last eight games. Their season has unraveled, and with injuries and suspensions piling up, the Breakers are simply looking to avoid the wooden spoon.

Expect the Taipans to rely on Rob Edwards and the returning Taran Armstrong to lead the charge offensively, particularly from beyond the arc, as Cairns look to exploit New Zealand’s shaky perimeter defence.

Key Matchups

Rob Edwards (Cairns) vs. New Zealand’s Perimeter Defence

Edwards has been in sizzling form, averaging 23.4 points over his last seven games. New Zealand ranks 8th in the NBL in opponent three-point percentage, meaning Edwards should have plenty of opportunities to pile on the points.

Tanner Groves & Sam Waardenburg (Cairns) vs. New Zealand’s Interior Defence

The presence of Taco Fall in the paint may limit Cairns’ inside scoring, but Groves and Waardenburg have been dominant recently, combining for big numbers in the paint. Their ability to crash the boards will be crucial against a Breakers side ranked last in rebounding.

Matt Mooney (New Zealand) vs. Cairns’ Backcourt

With Parker Jackson-Cartwright’s fitness in question, Matt Mooney has taken over as the Breakers' primary offensive weapon, averaging 21.4 points per game since PJC’s suspension. If he can break through Cairns’ perimeter pressure, New Zealand’s offence has a chance to stay competitive.

Key Stats

New Zealand has lost seven of their past eight home games this season.
Cairns has won three of their last four games and three of their past four road matches.
The Taipans are averaging 97.6 points per game in their last five contests.
New Zealand ranks 8th in the NBL in opponent three-point percentage (36.1%).

Why Cairns Win

Cairns are playing with confidence, scoring at will, and showing no fear against top teams. Their offence is firing, and the Breakers’ perimeter defence is unlikely to contain Edwards and Armstrong. If Groves and Waardenburg continue their dominance inside, the Taipans should have no trouble racking up points and securing another win.

Why New Zealand Win

If the Breakers are to snap their losing streak, they need to find energy and defensive discipline. PJC’s presence would be a huge boost, and Mooney must continue to lead the scoring charge. If New Zealand can slow the pace and control possession, they may be able to grind out a victory at home.

Conclusion

Cairns are in the better form and playing with freedom, while New Zealand have struggled for motivation. The Taipans’ offensive firepower and New Zealand’s defensive lapses make Cairns the clear favourite to take this one on the road.