NBL R20 betting preview & predictions | Feb 15-18, 2024

February 14, 2024 11:55 am.by Jackson Swan

NBL Round 20 tips

It’s the last round of the 2023/24 NBL regular season this weekend, and with finals positions on the line, get set for some intense action. Below are our previews for all seven matches of round 20.

Illawarra Hawks vs Perth Wildcats

Thursday, February 15 – 7:30pm AEDT – WIN Entertainment Centre

After winning four of their last five games, the Illawarra Hawks have now practically secured their finals position as they head into their last two matches. Welcoming the Wildcats on Thursday, the Hawks face one of the top teams in the NBL. However, locked into second position no matter the results this weekend, the Wildcats are just looking to carry momentum into the finals, which may give the Hawks the edge as they chase a top-four spot.

New Zealand Breakers vs Brisbane Bullets

Friday, February 16 – 7:30pm NZDT – Spark Arena

Sat in the bottom two playoff spots, this match is season-defining for both the Breakers and Bullets as they look to fend off the Sydney Kings for a spot in the play-in tournament. After winning five of their past six at home, the Breakers come into this match as favourites as their unlikely finals run comes to fruition. However, the away side has won the past four encounters in this matchup, which should give the Bullets hope in what shapes to be a very tight contest.

Cairns Taipans vs Melbourne United

Friday, February 16 – 6:30pm AEST – Cairns Convention Centre

After winning three of their past four matches, Melbourne United have now locked away top spot as they head into the final round. Welcoming the already eliminated Cairns Taipans, United will be looking to carry their form into the finals series. One interesting fact is that the Taipans have beaten United on both occasions this season and, with the home advantage, may be on for another upset on Friday night.

South East Melbourne Phoenix vs Sydney Kings

Saturday, February 17 – 5:30pm AEDT – John Cain Arena

The Sydney Kings need a win on Saturday afternoon as they face the Phoenix. Making the trip down to Melbourne, the Kings must be wary of the last-placed side in the NBL after losing both matches earlier this season. While other results still need to go their way, a win for Sydney puts pressure on the sides above ahead of their matches the following day.

Tasmania JackJumpers vs Perth Wildcats

Saturday, February 17 – 8pm AEDT – MyState Bank Arena

After winning four of their past five matches, the Tasmania JackJumpers have separated themselves from the chasing pack and locked away third spot. Hosting the second-placed Wildcats, we could be set for a finals preview between two of the most dynamic sides in the NBL. After losing both clashes to the Perth side this season, the JackJumpers will be keen to get one back, but with both sides likely to rotate their squads, this could be an unpredictable clash.

Melbourne United vs Illawarra Hawks

Sunday, February 18 – 2pm AEDT – John Cain Arena

With their finals position dependant on other matches across the weekend, the Hawks will be looking to close out their season in style as they face a tough away trip to Melbourne. With both sides facing their second match of the week, expect United to rest some of their stars as they can’t move from top spot. After losing the past four to United, the Wildcats won’t get a better chance to break the streak than now.

Adelaide 36ers vs New Zealand Breakers

Sunday, February 18 – 3:30pm ACDT – Adelaide Entertainment Centre

In the final match of the NBL regular season, it may be the last chance for the Breakers to make the finals as they head to Adelaide. Facing the second-last team, the Breakers will be looking for a massive win as their close percentage battle with the Kings may decide the last finals spot. On a regular weekend, the 36ers at home would hold the advantage, but with too much to play for, the Breakers should get the job done.

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