The win over Bayern Munich away essentially dampened its home defeat to Barcelona two weeks ago and kept Valencia in the playoff zone. The bats have strong confidence that they can make it.

Ponsarnau's team also did their part in the Copa del Rey, where despite win on Barcelona in the quarter-finals, they did not have the strength or energy to beat their opponent in the semifinals against Real.

The match against Maccabi is crucial in every respect as it will consolidate its position in the first eight and become a favorite in the playoffs.

American scorer Jordan Lloyd (11.1 points, 1.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists) with fatigue fractures and experienced Belgian playmaker Van Rossom (6.9 points, 2.1 rebounds, 4.6 assists) remain out of action for two weeks.

Maccabi had two "training games" in the previous 10 days, as they had the equivalent of a league game that they easily won. First it was 98-74 over Ber Sheva  and then they won 75-64 over Ryson.

In the "double" week before the break they made two huge wins. Maccabi first dominated within Himki with 80-77 and then beat Fener away 78-77 with Hunter's basket two seconds before the end. 

Permanently outside are, the  leader Omri Caspi (12 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists), American playmaker Nate Walters (7.5 points, 2.7 assists), guard Dibartolomeo (7.8 points average).

US center Tarik Black (9.1 points, 4.8 rebounds) returned from the US where he was recovering and is expected to return by mid-March. The talented forward Zoosman (5.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists) returns to the 27th race. Hard-hitting American forward Ford Quincy Eis (5.3 points, 3.8 rebounds) will miss the match due to a two-week absence due to an injury.

The overall record in Euroleague since 2000, is Valencia - Maccabi 1-4.

In the first round, Maccabi beat Valencia 76-63.

Let's take a look at main and special odds markets offered at bet365 website :

• FullTime Result : 1.71(Valencia) - 2.20(Maccabi)
• Over/Under 162.5 points : 1.86(Over) - 1.95(Under)
• Race to 20 points: 1.76(Valencia) - 1.90(Maccabi)

*bet365 odds as offered at  21/02, 15:00CET (subject to change without prior notice) | 18+, T&Cs Apply, BeGambleAware.org

Bojan Dubljievic is the leader of Valencia. Maccabi has on its roster one of the best defenders in Euroleague, Othello Hunter.

The American will have to stop Dubljievic . It will be an epic fight in the paint.