Maccabi Tel Aviv Faces Injury Concerns Ahead of Derby Clash

Maccabi Tel Aviv is assessing the fitness of several key players as they prepare for their upcoming derby match against Hapoel Tel Aviv for the Social Super Cup. The team recently concluded a training tournament in Cyprus, where they secured a victory against Aris Thessaloniki (92-87) but suffered a loss to Olympiacos (72-77). Despite the loss, the club expressed satisfaction with the team's performance and chemistry development during the tournament and a prior training camp in Israel. The primary goals of these preseason games were to evaluate player response, build team chemistry, integrate new players, and improve game fitness and intensity.

Several players are dealing with injuries. Yam Madar sustained a minor knee contusion during the Olympiacos game but is expected to be available for the derby. Oshae Brissett is being rested due to knee discomfort. Jarell Martin is recovering from a partial hamstring tear sustained two weeks ago and is considered a significant doubt for the derby. TJ Leaf has returned to play after a lengthy recovery from shoulder surgery in February 2025, with his minutes being managed. Daniel Theis is experiencing ankle discomfort from an injury sustained during the international break with Germany and is being given additional rest, though he is eager to play in his first official game for the team. Gur Lavi remains sidelined with a knee injury and is continuing his rehabilitation, with his return to play expected to be gradual and safe.

The derby against Hapoel Tel Aviv marks the first official game of the season and is a highly anticipated matchup, especially given the rivalry and the first trophy of the season being on the line. The club values the continuity of players from the previous season, which contributes significantly to the team's experience and dynamics both on and off the court.