NBL Round 21

Melbourne v South Dragons

Game 3 of the Melbourne derby takes place at The Cage tonight.  The Tigers won the first two meetings earlier in the season (by 3 points at The Cage in round 4 and by 10 points at Vodafone Arena in round 13).  The Tigers still have not officially secured 2nd place on the ladder and a large proportion of the Dragons squad are playing for contracts next season which should mean that both teams will be keen for the win here.

The Tigers lost to the Breakers in New Zealand 2 days ago, 91-105.  Chris Anstey (21 points and 10 rebounds) and Dave Barlow (20 points) were the main contributors.  Backing up from playing in a different country against a team that has just recently ended a big losing streak will be no easy task for the Tigers.

The Dragons ended a 14 game losing streak after defeating Cairns at home 3 days ago, 95-90.  Import Cortez Groves top scored with 24 points.  Matt Burston (19 points and 14 rebounds) and their other import, Bakari Hendrix (19 points and 10 rebounds) also made good contributions.  The Dragons last game is at home against Sydney next Saturday.

I think the Tigers are a little too short here.  They will be keen to secure 2nd place, traveling back from New Zealand will make it tough for them though.  I believe Dragons Coach Guy Molloy will get his troops up for their last two games of the season.  A play on the Dragons to cover the big start along with a small play on the upset in this derby game I believe is warranted.  The points total looks about right to me.   

Dragons +14.0 at $1.91 (Lasseters) - 1.5 units
Dragons $9.00 (Lasseters) - 0.5 unit