Zhejiang Guangsha Lions VS Shanxi Loongs Prediction, Picks, Odds, H2H, and News on 4/10/24

On Wednesday afternoon, the highly anticipated CBA Playoffs kick off with exciting matchups: Shenzhen Leopards vs Beijing Royal Fighters and Zhejiang Guangsha Lions vs Shanxi Loongs. The duel between the Lions and the Loongs could be a nail-biter, especially considering the potential absence of the Lions’ star player, Minghui Sun. Our Guangsha Lions vs Shanxi Loongs 

Prediction and betting picks are in the article below. 

According to bookmakers, the Zhejiang Guangsha Lions are the favorites, with odds of 1.5 for their victory compared to 2.63 for the visitors. The point spread stands at +/- 4.5 points. However, prominent bookmakers are lowering the odds for the visitors to win due to the likelihood of Sun’s absence. If this information holds, this could be a value bet. 

Ranked fifth, the Zhejiang Guangsha Lions seemed poised to secure a top-four finish before a combination of a tough schedule and Sun’s absence pushed them into the 1/8 Finals series. On the other end of the spectrum, the Shanxi Loongs, the last-seeded team in the Playoffs, are entering with a fearless attitude, with many basketball pundits predicting them to upset the Sun-less Lions.

GUANGSHA LIONS VS SHANXI LOONGS Prediction and  PICK

• Selection: Shanxi Loongs to win 
• Odds: 2.63
• Bookmaker: Betfair
• Stake: 2/10

Odds are as of April 10th, 2024. Odds may now differ. 

The Zhejiang Guangsha Lions, with all key players healthy, are undoubtedly a much better team. Under normal circumstances, we would confidently predict a straightforward 2:0 victory for them. Their home record this season speaks volumes, boasting an impressive 23-3 win-loss record. However, their reliance on Sun is undeniable, and his potential absence could drastically alter their chances. 

This vulnerability was evident in the latter part of the regular season, where they stumbled, losing four of their last six matches. Admittedly, those defeats came against formidable opponents and were on the road, but they raised concerns about their potential without their star player.

In stark contrast, the Shanxi Loongs enter the playoffs on a respectable winning streak, triumphing in three consecutive matches against solid opponents: Beijing Royal Fighters (117:103), Beijing Ducks (102:94), and Tianjin Pioneers (124:117). While these may not be top-tier teams, it is still a nice mini-winning steak.

The visiting team is heavily reliant on their offensive prowess, leading the league with an average of 111 points per game and ranking second in 3-point attempts at 12.8. 

With nothing to lose and the pressure off, the Loongs may unleash a potent offensive display, providing them with a window of opportunity to catch the Lions off guard and seize control of the series. Visit Expert Insights for more daily basketball picks and predictions!

ZHEJIANG GUANGSHA LIONS VS SHANXI LOONGS GAME INFO

• Date: Wednesday, April 10th, 2024
• Time: 13:35 (CEST)
• Arena: Zhuji Jiyang Sports Center Gymnasium 
• Location: Zhuji

ZHEJIANG GUANGSHA LIONS TEAM NEWS

As emphasized previously, the absence of Minghui Sun looms large over the Zhejiang Guangsha Lions as they enter the first round of the playoffs. To underscore his significance, it’s worth noting that the 27-year-old guard leads the league in both assists and steals. Additionally, he stands out as the league’s top scorer among domestic players and earned a well-deserved spot on this year’s All-CBA team.

Statistically, the impact of Sun’s absence becomes even more 

apparent. Analysis reveals that the Lions score a staggering 13.6 points fewer per 100 possessions when he’s not on the court. 

SHANXI LOONGS TEAM NEWS

According to reports from Chinese media outlets, the Shanxi Loongs are expected to have their entire squad available for the upcoming playoffs. That includes Alexey Shved, who was sidelined for the previous two games but is anticipated to be fully fit and ready to contribute to the team’s playoff campaign.

GUANGSHA LIONS VS SHANXI LOONGS H2H

These teams met three times this season, with both teams winning their home matches:

•  Mar 10th, 2024 – Zhejiang Guangsha Lions vs Shanxi Loongs – 110:98
• Feb 4th, 2024 – Zhejiang Guangsha Lions vs Shanxi Loongs – 100:82
• Nov 12th, 2023 – Shanxi Loongs vs Zhejiang Guangsha Lions – 101:100

Additionally, these teams met in the 1/8 Finals Playoff last year, with the Lions easily winning the series:

• Apr 12th, 2023 – Shanxi Loongs vs Zhejiang Guangsha Lions – 96:111
• Apr 10th, 2023 – Zhejiang Guangsha Lions vs Shanxi Loongs – 103:81

SAFER GAMBLING

At bettingexpert, we always take a safe approach to gambling. We’ll never bet more than we can afford or chase losses. For more advice, head to our Safer Gambling hub.