Maccabi Tel Aviv Faces Rival Hapoel in Super Cup Amidst Injury Concerns

Maccabi Tel Aviv is set to face Hapoel Tel Aviv in the first derby of the season for the Social Super Cup on Thursday evening. After losing last year's Super Cup to Hapoel Jerusalem, Maccabi aims to start the season with a title win. The team has completed a training camp and played four preparation games, including two in Israel against Bnei Herzliya and Maccabi Rishon LeZion, and a tournament in Cyprus against Aris Thessaloniki and Olympiacos. Despite the importance of the game and the rivalry, Maccabi is prioritizing player health, especially with the EuroLeague season starting in a week. Key players Jimmy Clark and Daniel Theis are doubtful due to hamstring and ankle issues, respectively. Oushe Brissett is also questionable with a minor knee injury sustained in Cyprus. Final decisions on Theis and Brissett will be made before the game, but all three are unlikely to play. Guard Guy Lavi continues his recovery from a complex knee injury and has no certain return date. T.J. Leaf is cleared to play after shoulder surgery but will have limited minutes. Yam Madar is set to make his official debut for Maccabi after a turbulent summer regarding his signing and a minor knee injury in a preparation game. Coach Oded Katash also faces a decision regarding new Israeli-qualified players Will Rayman and Shane Hunter, as only one can be registered for the game.