In the preliminary stage, unbeaten Olympiacos and Real Madrid, along with Maccabi and Fener Ulker (all first at their groups), looked some steps ahead of the rest. Especially, the Greek superpower and the Madrid artists who let's not forget, formed last year's final..
Surprisingly, Olympiacos Piraeus has started phase 2, with two defeats and a victory (against Fener). Disappointing? Partly, yes.
A series of injuries of key players, have put an extra burden to the shoulders of the remaining parts of the roster. New replacements of inexperienced to the Euroleague's tempo American players, don't seem (for the moment) capable to give a so much needed boost to the team.
Is it a matter of time for Greeks back2back champions, to get out of the water and make the usual come back? To my eye, YES!
The "squad" is obviously tired, and has lost its aggressive way of winning practically all opponents. My personal feeling, since I fully trust ownership, manager and above all the players of this team, is that starting with the three upcoming games, they will find again the path leading to the playoffs in April (with or without advantage, that doesn't count at the moment). Second negative surprise, with a 0-3 results, is Fener.. It is very odd but coach's Obradovic team, with a terrific roster, is running out of steam in the middle of the 4th quarter ! Psychology ? Maybe yes, maybe no. Upcoming game at home versus Panathinaicos, will bring out if the pricey roster and the big names were worth of.. Real Madrid, proves game by game (winning everybody, everywhere), that the sky is the limit. Their motivation towards a consecutive 2d final (successful this time), is more than obvious. Coming to the bigger positive surprise so far, Panathinaicos appears more eager and confident than ever. Their really challenging test though will be their visit to Constantinople to meet struggling and playing its last cards, Fener.
As for the proud of Catalunia, Barcelona stronger than in the early season, is heating towards 1st place of the group. In the other group Real Madrid, as we previously said plays in the red resembling at a formula 1, without.. brakes. Maccabi and Cska will fight for 2d place, and Bayern M. and Partisan Belgrade for a place in the sun !
TO CONCLUDE : Most probable scenario ( if Panathinaicos doesn't burst like a bubble ) : A GREEK - SPANISH FINAL 4, where Greeks and Spaniards, both half way from home ( Milan 16-18 May ), will fight for the crown.
Please place your bets, rien ne va plus...
