On the final Friday night NBL clash of 2023, the Cairns Taipans will travel south to take on the Syndey Kings.
It wasn't a merry Christmas for either team this year - the Kings were defeated on Christmas Day by rivals Illawarra, while the Taipans were downed on Boxing Day by Perth, meaning both teams are in need of a win.
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Can Sydney end 2023 in style, or will Cairns make it three straight losses for the reigning champions?
Sydney Kings vs Cairns Taipans prediction
- Prediction: Cairns Taipans to win
On paper, the Kings should be the favourite to win this game, but they have already dropped two straight that they should have won.
These two teams have played twice already this season - one win each - most recently seeing Sydney claim a three-point victory.
With only one win in their last four outings, their form has begun to slide, while the Taipans have struggled to get into second gear, their last four split two and two.
Sydney have seemingly had all the pieces this season, but haven't been able to put them all together, and Cairns should be able to take advantage of their opponents' flailing form.
Sydney Kings vs Cairns Taipans key matchup
Key matchup: Alex Toohey vs Bobi Klintman
This one isn't a traditional one-to-one matchup - Toohey is a consistent starter for Sydney while Klintman comes off the bench for Cairns - but this battle of Next Stars could well prove to be a microcosm of the entire game.
Toohey came on early as a Next Star, winning the starting spot and providing consistent minutes for a team with genuine championship goals.
Klintman took a little longer, but he has began to make his mark in a big way, 24 points and seven rebounds in their most recent outting.
While the two may not match minutes, they will both hope to provide a spark for two teams that desperately need it.
Sydney Kings vs Cairns Taipans player to watch
- Player to watch: Jaylin Galloway
The clubhouse leader for the Most Improved Player award, Jaylin Galloway has turned into a player that the Kings desperately need, a reliable game changer on both sides.
Currently averaging 11.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, Galloway has blossomed into a stud, providing the Kings great minutes and at times being one of their best two players.
Consistency has evaded him at times; in his last three games he's scored 22, 7, and 11 points, but when he's at his best he completely changes Sydney's dynamic.
When is Sydney Kings vs Cairns Taipans?
The Sydney Kings host the Cairns Taipans on Friday, December 29, at QUDOS Bank Arena in Sydney.
The game is set to tip off at 7:30 pm AEDT.
How to watch Cairns Taipans vs South East Melbourne Phoenix
The Friday night clash between the Kings and the Taipans will be shown live on ESPN, via Foxtel.
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The game can also be streamed on Kayo.
| TV Channel | ESPN |
| Streaming | Kayo |
*Available on Friday, 5-10pm until 18th February 2024. Participating stores only. Min spend $15. Service fees apply
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