The Xavier Musketeers are set to visit the Butler Bulldogs in a crucial non-conference matchup, with both teams seeking to bolster their tournament resumes. Xavier has been averaging 79 points per game over their last five contests, while allowing 85 points per game, resulting in a 2-3 record during that stretch. Their most recent win was a 68-66 nail-biter against DePaul, where they managed to hold off a late surge. In contrast, Butler has been struggling, losing all five of their last games, including a 64-77 defeat at the hands of Georgetown, where they were outscored by 13 points. The Bulldogs have been averaging a mere 66.4 points per game over their last five, while conceding 77.4 points per game, resulting in an average deficit of 11 points.
Butler's recent form has been marred by defensive struggles, with the team allowing an average of 77.4 points per game over their last five contests. This vulnerability will be put to the test against Xavier's offense, which has been scoring at a rate of 79 points per game over the same period. The Musketeers' ability to capitalize on Butler's defensive weaknesses matters in determining the outcome of this game.
Xavier and Butler Have a Long History
The individual matchups in this game will be fascinating, particularly given the recent hot streaks of certain players. For instance, Xavier's leading scorer has been on a tear, averaging 22.5 points per game over the last three contests. However, Butler's defense has been stout against opposing teams' top scorers, holding them to an average of 18.2 points per game over their last five games. This matchup will be a significant test for both teams, as they look to assert their dominance and gain a much-needed win. The Bulldogs' own star player has been struggling, averaging just 12.8 points per game over the last four contests, and must regain his form if Butler is to have any chance of winning.
The trends in this game suggest that Xavier's offense will be the decisive factor, given their ability to score at a high rate. The Musketeers have been averaging 79 points per game over their last five contests, and have scored over 80 points in three of those games. In contrast, Butler has struggled to keep pace, averaging just 66.4 points per game over the same period. The Bulldogs' inability to score has been a major concern, and they must find a way to overcome this if they are to have any chance of winning. With Xavier's offense firing on all cylinders, it is likely that the game will be a high-scoring affair, with the Musketeers looking to exploit Butler's defensive vulnerabilities.
CHD Scout Prediction
Xavier
77
Butler
80
The CHD Scout prediction has Butler winning by 2.9 points, with a 60.1% win probability. This prediction is likely based on the fact that Butler has been performing slightly better in terms of defensive efficiency, allowing an average of 77.4 points per game over their last five contests, compared to Xavier's 85 points per game. Additionally, the Bulldogs have been able to keep games close, with an average margin of defeat of just 11 points over their last five games. However, Xavier's offense has been potent, and if they can manage to overcome Butler's defensive efforts, they may be able to pull off the upset. The decisive factor in this game will be Xavier's ability to capitalize on Butler's defensive struggles, and if they can do so, they may be able to defy the prediction and emerge victorious.
The tournament stakes in this game are high, with both teams desperately seeking quality wins to bolster their resumes.
A win for either team would be a significant boost to their tournament chances, given their current position on the bubble. For Butler, a win would help to offset their recent losing streak, and demonstrate their ability to compete against tough opponents. On the other hand, a loss would be a significant setback, and would likely push them further down the bubble. For Xavier, a win would be a major coup, given their struggles against top-tier opponents. It would demonstrate their ability to compete against quality teams, and would be a significant feather in their cap. Conversely, a loss would be a missed opportunity, and would likely leave them on the outside looking in when it comes to tournament selection. The implications of this game are clear: a win is essential for both teams, and the loser will be left to pick up the pieces and regroup for their next contest.
In terms of recent form, Xavier's 68-66 win over DePaul was a significant confidence booster, and demonstrated their ability to close out tight games. However, their 60-92 loss to UConn was a major setback, and highlighted their vulnerability against top-tier opponents. Butler's recent form has been more consistent, with all five of their last games resulting in losses. However, they have been competitive in most of those games, and have demonstrated an ability to stay close against tough opponents. The decisive factor in this game will be which team can overcome their recent struggles and emerge victorious. With both teams desperate for a win, it is likely that the game will be a closely contested, high-intensity affair. The team that can manage to assert their dominance and capitalize on the other's weaknesses will be the one that emerges victorious.