Ticket-winner hopefuls and bubble teams alike battle it out in the week 10 finale tonight, with one series a clear cut must-watch above all the rest.
Cavs Legion GC (4-5) vs. Heat Check Gaming (3-8)
Due to internet issues, Cavs Legion GC has fallen behind when it comes to games played, yet they find themselves in prime position to make a legitimate push for the final playoff spot. Unlike other teams that had question marks surrounding their roster, we must give credit to Cleveland for both finding and sticking with a combination. With Strainer at point guard and Doza as the sharp, the Cavs have at least kept themselves in the mix for a postseason spot.
For Heat Check Gaming, it’ll soon be able to redirect its attention to the Turn and building confidence ahead of The Ticket. It’s been a disappointing season for Miami as they’ve been unable to maximize the talent on the roster. They are most recently coming off a loss to Magic Gaming, conceding a total of 96 points to Reizey over two games.
Key Matchup: Strainer and Doza vs. GlennRatty and Hotshot
These two teams are exponentially better when their respective duos are lighting up the scoreboard. Barring any connection issues, expect Strainer and Doza to take a majority of Cleveland’s shots. Meanwhile for Miami, we know what Glennratty is capable of when he catches fire, but the consistent cog that Hotshot represents will be key once again tonight.
— Kris Cuaresma
Hawks Talon GC (4-7) vs. 76ers GC (5-8)
Hawks Talon GC picked the absolute worst time to begin a losing streak. The same team that began this season 3-1 now find themselves on the outside of the playoff picture, with not much hope of re-entering the conversation. A seven-loss team could potentially reach the playoffs, and right now Atlanta is hoping they’re that team, but a streaking 76ers GC stands in their way of making any noise.
76ers GC could be catching fire at the perfect time. While they definitely won’t be reaching the playoffs with their regular-season record, could Philly pull off the unthinkable and win the Ticket? After beginning the season, everybody had this 76ers GC team crossed off. That includes myself. But now, with four straight series wins and momentum in their favor, the team could be using their last few regular-season games to build towards something greater: a playoff berth via the Ticket.
Key Matchup: Radiant vs. FollowtheGod
Radiant has looked like the MVP finalist we all know. With a pair of 50-point performances on Tuesday, Radiant is only improving as the season chugs along. Tonight, Hawks Talon’s lockdown FollowtheGod will have his hands full with a scorer that’s been frying opposing defenders with recent play.
— Aaron Fox
Jazz Gaming (10-2) vs. Grizz Gaming (7-6)
After dropping its week nine series against Bucks Gaming, Jazz Gaming bounced back and defeated Mavs Gaming in Tuesday’s opener. With ten wins, it’s all but guaranteed we’ll see Splashy and co. in the playoffs. Now the team is focused on improving their positioning, while potentially ending the playoff aspirations Memphis possesses.
For Grizz Gaming, tonight is the most important series of its season. This team has been able to dig themselves out of a 0-4 start, and are one of the hottest squads in the league. Pairing Goofy757 with an already talented duo of Vandi and AuthenticAfrican has been everything the Memphis front office dreamt of. With just a few matchups remaining, the gritty Grizz have to remain perfect to claim their playoff spot.
Key Matchup: Goofy vs. Ria
Ria, in my humble opinion, has undoubtedly been the best center in the league this season. That’s not to say other big men haven’t had great seasons, Ria has just been that good. A potential Defensive Player of the Year candidate, Ria is slated to square off with another talented big man, Goofy757. A battle in the trenches tonight, with playoff implications on the line.
— Aaron Fox