The 'aurinegro' squad, without pressure after securing their place in the title playoffs for the seventh consecutive year, is weakened by a string of injuries affecting key players. The absence of Gio Shermadini is now joined by that of Fran Guerra, who suffered an ankle sprain last Friday. Given this situation, the recently signed Kevin Yebo, more of a 'four and a half' than a pure center, will have to take on a greater role, supported by Tim Abromaitis playing as an improvised 'five'.

The situation is not much different for Real Madrid, which has lost its three centers: Edy Tavares, Alex Len, and Usman Garuba. The 'whites' have incorporated the Turkish player Omer Yurtseven and the Malian Mady Sissoko to strengthen their paint for the best-of-three series.

Due to the lack of interior players, La Laguna Tenerife is forced to adopt a 'small ball' strategy. Players like Patty Mills, Wes Van Beck, and Tim Abromaitis (acting as a false five) will be crucial. However, the absences of Rokas Giedraitis and Bruno Fitipaldo, along with the physical issues of Marcelo Huertas and Aaron Doornekamp, limit the islanders' options against the physical power of players like Mario Hezonja and Alberto Abalde from the Madrid team.

Canarias' coach, Txus Vidorreta, aims to implement a faster pace of play, akin to 'rock and roll', to counteract the adversities. This intensity, where Patty Mills excels, could also benefit new signings like Icelandic point guard Elvar Fridriksson and Kevin Yebo.

The Tenerife team already demonstrated its ability to compete at the Movistar Arena a month and a half ago, achieving a 90-95 victory with outstanding performances from Mills and Huertas. Since that setback, Real Madrid has struggled at home, which could give Canarias hope if they manage to impose their playing rhythm.