Barcelona - Valencia

Even though Valencia has injuries and does not play with full strength, I am going with them only because it's the opening match of a new arena. There will be plenty of motivation, a lot of spectators, and a return to the Euroleague. It should be a big celebration. Virtus won against Real in the first round, but Madrid's team tragically missed 3 pointers. Virtus itself does not inspire any optimism, and they should choose random players for the season, but I do not expect much from them.

Even for a very clumsy player, this total should be achievable with a real effort, so before the upcoming match against Valencia, the team should easily gather points. Overseas players who are able to offer a strong attack, with considerable experience in different clubs, could be a great addition to the team.

This year, the interesting team Maccabi gathered, having a decent offensive potential, and they started Euroleague quite well by giving a tough fight to Efes until the end and ultimately losing by only 7 points after a 11-2 run. I believe in this match-up, Maccabi has a good chance to win and I would even consider them as bigger favorites than the 3 points given to them. Paris team this year is not as strong, as many key players such as Shorts, Ward and the coach have left. I don't see how they have strengthened their team and their first game against El was easily won by Fener. Maccabi may not be Fener, but they can win by at least +10 points.