Updated: Perth Wildcats vs Sydney Kings NBL Game Preview

Perth Wildcats vs Sydney Kings Expert Analysis

(Updated 25-10-24)

The Perth Wildcats are in a critical phase as they navigate the absence of Bryce Cotton, their star and MVP. Cotton’s injury, which will keep him out for several weeks, comes at a tough time, with Perth already struggling, sitting near the bottom of the ladder with just 2 wins from 6 matches. Sydney, on the other hand, has faced some early season challenges of their own, particularly with finding consistent rhythm in their rotations. Although the Kings boast a strong 5-2 record, their wins have often come in tight contests, and they’ll need to iron out these issues to take full advantage of a weakened Perth side.

To add a late twist to this match, both teams have suffered some late injuries .Tai Webster, who was expected to control the point for Perth in Cotton's absence and be the main piece to guide the Wildcats through this challenge, has been ruled out with an adductor injury. Meanwhile, Jaylen Adams has succumb again to his back injury that kept him out a couple of weeks ago.

Key Matchups

Young Guards vs Young Guards: With both teams suffering injuries to their guards the decisions made by both coaches will be vital to their success in this matchup. John Rilley has lost Cotton and Webster and will be forced to start Ben Henshall and have Elijah Pepper and Michael Harris in the rotation more predominantly. Brian Gorjian on the other side of the court will lean on Tyler Robinson and Shaun Bruce in the absence of Adams. The moment will be big and the players that embraced their increased role will determine the outcome of this match.

Keanu Pinder (PER) vs. Sydney Frontcourt: Keanu Pinder’s early-season form showed promise with a massive opening game, but his performances have since dipped, with only 27 points across the last four games. Against Sydney’s formidable frontcourt, particularly with Keli Leuapepe and Xavier Cooks’s physicality and rebounding ability, Pinder will need to rise to the occasion if Perth has any chance of competing inside the paint. Oliver, along with Sydney's big men, will aim to stifle Pinder and win the battle down low.

For the full scoop on Bryce Cotton's injury, read Josh's expert analysis on how Perth should deal with his absence.

Key Stats

Perth Wildcats

• Offensively, they rank 8th in the NBL, managing just 85.8 points per game, showing how much they rely on Cotton’s scoring.

• Keanu Pinder’s form has dropped, with only 27 points in his last 4 matches, far from the impact expected of him after his strong season debut.

Sydney Kings

• Sydney’s defence is their strong suit, allowing just 84.6 points per game, which is ranked 3rd in the league, and this will be crucial against a weakened Perth offence.

• Sydney ranks 2nd in the NBL with 45.1 rebounds per game, which will give them a significant advantage in controlling possession, especially without Cotton’s playmaking for Perth.

Why Perth Win

For Perth to come away with a victory, they’ll need to dig deep and get contributions from their younger players. Ben Henshall and Elijah Pepper have a golden opportunity to prove themselves, and if they can combine for strong offensive performances, it could alleviate the absence of Cotton. Keanu Pinder also holds the key—if he can rediscover his form and dominate in the paint, Perth could challenge Sydney’s frontcourt. Tai Webster is also going to need to step up and lead his young guards by pathing the way for them with his own performance. John Rillie’s adjustments in the absence of his star player will be critical to keeping Perth competitive.

Why Sydney Win

Sydney’s advantage lies in their depth and defensive prowess. Without Cotton, Perth loses not just their primary scorer, but also their leader on the court. The Kings’ defence, which allows just 84.6 points per game, will likely shut down the Wildcats’ young guards, making it hard for Perth to find offensive rhythm. Tyler Robertson has shown that he can handle increased gametime and if he can control the tempo and feed Xavier Cooks so he can assert his presence inside, it will likely make Sydney too strong for the Wildcats. Their balance and depth, especially in comparison to a Cotton-less Perth team, should see the Kings come out on top.

The absence of Bryce Cotton leaves a significant void that Perth may struggle to fill, especially against a strong Sydney Kings side. Sydney’s defence, led by Cooks and Kuol, will likely prove too much for a Wildcats team still figuring out how to manage without their MVP. While Perth’s young talent will have opportunities to step up, the Kings’ experience and depth give them a clear edge. Expect Sydney to control the game and emerge with a win, extending Perth’s difficult start to the season.