Zalgiris struggled to score in the paint against ASVEL, making just 17-of-37 shots (45.9%) inside the arc.
Keys to victory: Zalgiris Kaunas vs. Zenit St Petersburg
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Zalgiris struggled to score in the paint against ASVEL, making just 17-of-37 shots (45.9%) inside the arc. On the other hand, ASVEL had really good shooting percentages against the Lithuanian champs (60.0% 2FG, 47.8% 3FG), so reaching out to defend shots and improving its defense should be two big keys for Coach Martin Schiller's squad. Zalgiris had 12 turnovers but ASVEL had 10 steals, which means that most of its mistakes went straight into their opponents' hands. In that sense, Mantas Kalnietis, Mudiay and Strelnieks should have a critical role in this game, organizing Zalgiris's offense and minimizing mistakes. Getting Lauvergne and Josh Nebo involved around the basket should be important, too.
In Kazan, Zenit led by 12 points with over 3 minutes left and UNICS managed to keep its chances alive until the final seconds. Zenit committed 18 turnovers and struggled from beyond the three-point line (8-of-29, 27.6% 3FG). Without injured playmaker Shabazz Napier, Conner Frankamp and Dmitry Kulagin should once again share the point guard duties. Zenit only had 11 assists against UNICS, so getting its best scorers (Baron, Loyd) and strongest finishers (Jordan Mickey, Alex Poythress) involved should be another key to remain undefeated.