Round 4 action in the 2022-23 NBL season continues on Saturday night with a heavyweight matchup between the JackJumpers and the Wildcats. Jake Smit brings you his best spread and player prop bets for the game right here!
Also, make sure to check out our NBL tips page where you’ll find our best bets for every game of the 2022-23 NBL season!
Tasmania JackJumpers vs Perth Wildcats Preview & Betting Tips
Saturday 8pm AEST, MyState Bank Arena
Slow starts to the season don’t seem to phase the JackJumpers. After starting the season 0-3, they now find themselves even on the ledger and back in the contenders conversation.
The Jackies are seemingly getting better with every game, particularly on the defensive end where they gave up just 64 points against a usually potent Melbourne United. That result came after they gave up just 72 points against the 36ers in a massive 25-point win.
In more positive news, import point guard Josh Magette has found some of his better form after a horrible start to the season, and Milton Doyle looks to be a solid first or second option on offence, which they surely miss due to the departure of Josh Adams.
The Wildcats missed the playoffs last season for the first time in 36 years and they’re determined to make it a one and done.
They began this season with three wins in a row but suffered their first loss against Melbourne United last time out – a team they just can’t seem to get the better of at RAC Arena. They’ve now lost eight of their last 10 against United, including six in a row on their home floor.
Regardless of their loss against United, the Wildcats would be thrilled with their team defence this season. They’ve conceded just 304 points from four games at an average of 76 points per contest, which makes them the clear best defence in the league right now.
The #1 and #2 defences in the league lock horns in prime time on Saturday night. All three meetings between these teams last seasons went over the current total of 162.5 points, but both teams lost a lot of firepower over the off-season, while adding more defensive pieces to their roster. On current trends, this game has the makings of a low-scoring and tight battle.
Under 162.5 Points
$1.90 (2.5 Units)
Alternate Bets
The JackJumpers won their most recent and all-important clash last season 85-83, which ultimately saw them make the playoffs and the Wildcats miss out. The Wildcats will obviously be looking for revenge, but the JackJumpers are building momentum with every game they play and are primed to put in a big shift on Saturday night. Getting $2.50+ for the home side to secure another win is clear value in my opinion.
Tasmania JackJumpers H2H ($2.65 at Ladbrokes)
I mentioned above the horrific start that Josh Magette had this season, but he’s found some for in his last two starts where he’s scored 23 and 10 points, shooting a combined 11-21 from the field. The bookies haven’t reacted to his return to form and have set his line at just 9.5 points for this one. He will be covering that line more often than not this season.
Josh Magette Over 9.5 Points ($1.85 at TAB)
