These games ask what happens after a strong first wave. Ryukyu can create extra shots through Cooley, while Eastern have a guard and wing combination capable of answering from the floor. Buriram can defend compactly and break through Bissoli, while Kashima have several ways to renew pressure. The second usable chance should matter more than the first burst in both contests.
Oura's passing and Cooley's work on the offensive glass can make Ryukyu difficult to contain. Eastern's Vining created points and assists against Abra, Leung made six threes, and Mockevicius collected the rebounds that can end a possession. Ryukyu's club reported several players missing the late October game, and none appeared in the next box, but their status for this match is unconfirmed; Oura, Cooley and Ravena did play. Ryukyu's latest game also showed a third-quarter defensive slide, while Eastern arrive after a longer break. I expect Vining and Leung to find enough answering shots and Mockevicius to limit repeat possessions. That's why I'm siding with Hong Kong Eastern to remain competitive.
Buriram scored from a restart at Gamba, yet conceded repeated close shots and had little sustained answer of their own. Kashima have used runs behind a back five, corners and quick restarts, with attacking changes adding another wave after halftime. Kim and Anzai missed Kashima's last game through known injuries, while the replacement defenders and Hayakawa played; Buriram's Nathan left the Gamba match early, with his current status unconfirmed. Kashima's renewed service should force Buriram to make more than one defensive stop and eventually create the decisive finish. That's why I'm siding with Kashima Antlers to win.
