Better the devil you know: United braces for unpredictable JackJumpers

The Tasmania JackJumpers have been beating the ‘backs against the wall’ drum plenty over the past week ahead of their sudden death game with Melbourne United.

While it’s obviously a disadvantage to go into Thursday night’s Play-In Qualifier down on troops, it almost makes planning difficult for the home team.

>> CLICK HERE TO BUY NBL26 FINALS TICKETS

“[The fact they have so many players out] doesn’t make it easier for us to prepare,” United big man Jesse Edwards said during United's media availability.

“We’ve already played them four times this season, but this is going to be a very different side, so we kind of don’t know what to expect.

“A lot of people are saying it's going to be easier, but I think it might be the opposite.

“One thing I do know, though, is that we’re going to be ready for whatever they throw at us and [really focus] on playing our game.”

Edwards, who admits he’s been ‘blocking out all the outside noise’, and his United side are confident Thursday can be the start of a deep Finals run.

“For sure [there’s a strong belief among the group],” the Dutch international said.

“But it’s just about taking it one game at a time and not thinking about something that’s five or so games away.

“The whole point of the post-season is that everyone comes in with a fresh slate.

“We’re in a position where we’re going to have to fight hard [each time we step on the court], and we’re ready for whatever comes our way.”

Melbourne club MVP Edwards, who is averaging 13.5 points, 8.5 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game, and his United side play Tasmania from 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.