Game in Focus: Play-In Qualifier

When: Thursday, February 13 - 7.30pm AEDT
Where: Qudos Bank Arena
Watch: Live on ESPN via Kayo | International
Scores: Download the free NBL App

Watch for: This match-up ticks all the boxes for many reasons, but specifically because of the incredible individual talent on both teams. Any time you have a former MVP going head-to-head with a runner-up MVP, it is a recipe for fireworks.

The regular season results would indicate that the 36ers will go into this game feeling very confident that they can get the job done in Sydney. Adelaide won its last three against the Kings, with two of those coming on the road. At their very best, the 36ers are one of the toughest teams in the league due to their talent and size, which they have proven by winning every game against the Hawks in the regular season.

However, all the regular season results become irrelevant once the finals begin, and the Kings will be hoping to turn the tables on their opponent in this elimination game. While that task became tougher when Xavier Cooks was forced out of action, there is still plenty of talent on this Kings team to get the job done at home.

One of the key battles to watch is how the Kings overcome the height and interior presence of Adelaide, who boast one of the biggest and strongest frontcourts around. Without Cooks, it will put more pressure on some of the bench unit to play bigger than they are.

Players to watch: The 36ers have one of the most potent offensive units in the entire league, led by Kendric Davis, who had one of the best statistical seasons of all time. Davis has enjoyed the match-up with Jaylen Adams in the regular season, who has also scored over 40 points in their recent contests.

All eyes will be on DJ Vasiljevic who returns to his former home stadium to try and silence Kings fans and continue their quest towards a championship. The star sharpshooter has been filling it up in the final few rounds of the season and relishes an environment like this.

Inside the paint, it will be Montrezl Harrell and Cam Oliver who will put their strength to the test. Both players are capable of sparking energy for their teams and can make some big plays at the right time. With no Cooks, the Kings will be relying on Oliver even more to have the big impact that he is capable of.

The stat: Adelaide is 8-1 when allowing less than 90 points. Sydney has won its last seven games when allowing less than 90 points.

Missing in action: Keli Leaupepe is out (hamstring). Jaylin Galloway is out (shoulder). Xavier Cooks is out (suspension).