Maccabi Tel Aviv Faces Rival Hapoel Tel Aviv 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. The team has completed its 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 beginning next week. Guards Jalen Clark and Daniel Theis are questionable due to hamstring and ankle issues, respectively. Forward Ozgur Bost is also doubtful with a minor knee injury sustained in Cyprus. Final decisions on Theis and Bost will be made before the game, but all three are unlikely to play. Guard Guy Lavi continues his recovery from a knee injury and has no certain return date. T.J. Leaf is cleared to play after shoulder surgery but will be on a minutes restriction. Yam Madar, who recently recovered from a knee injury, will make his official debut for Maccabi after a tumultuous offseason regarding his contract. The coaching staff must also decide between new naturalized players Will Rayman and Shane Hunter, as only one can be registered for the game.