NBL25 Mid-Season Review: the Cairns Taipans Turn Their Season Around?

Cairns Taipans Mid-Season Review: Struggles, Standouts, and the Road Ahead

The Cairns Taipans have faced significant challenges this NBL season, currently sitting at a disappointing 3-9. Fans were hopeful for a stronger performance this year, but injuries to key players and a lack of depth have hindered the team's success. This mid-season review will evaluate the Taipans' performance, highlight standout players, and outline what must change for the team to turn their season around.

A Troubling Start

The 2025 season has not unfolded as expected for the Cairns Taipans. Injuries to crucial players have thwarted their chances to compete effectively. For a team relying heavily on a core group, like Edwards, Waardenburg, Groves, Bradshaw and Armstrong, losing them due to injuries can severely impact performance, particularly in a competitive league like the NBL.

The Taipans' roster depth has further complicated matters. During crucial games, when starters are sidelined, the burden falls on bench players to step in. Unfortunately, there has been inconsistent performance from the bench, leading to vulnerabilities during games. For example, during a recent match against the Brisbane Bullets, the Taipans’ bench contributed only 13 points, showcasing the lack of support for starters.

Individual Performers Shine

Despite the team's struggles, some players have shown exceptional talent. Rob Edwards, for instance, is averaging 20.4 points, 4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. His ability to consistently score makes him a top player, ranking second in the league for points per game. His performance in a game against the New Zealand Breakers, where he scored 33 points, exemplifies his capability to change the game's outcome.

Another standout is Sam Waardenburg, averaging 15 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.25 assists per game. His contributions are vital during crucial moments. Together, Edwards and Waardenburg form a core that the team can rely on, but other aspects of the game must improve for their efforts to matter.

Disappointing Stats

While players like Edwards and Waardenburg have shined individually, the team's statistics paint a troubling picture. Currently, the Taipans are averaging a mere 82.4 points per game, placing them in the bottom tier of the league. This mediocre scoring average is coupled with a lackluster defence, allowing an average of 92.7 points per game—one of the worst in the league.

Moreover, their rankings highlight further difficulties: they sit near the bottom of the league with a field goal percentage of 42% and a three-point percentage of just 33.2%. In categories like second-chance points, they average only 11.9, indicating a struggle to capitalise on offensive rebounds. Additionally, contributing only 20.2 bench points per game and committing 13.7 turnovers are significant issues that need immediate attention.

A Style in Need of Change

The Taipans' current gameplay appears outdated and inefficient. Rather than embracing a fast pace, their focus on half-court sets slows down their potential. This becomes a disadvantage in a league filled with athletes capable of explosive plays.

Their slow offensive output and inconsistent defense have created a dire situation. For the Taipans to regain their footing, they need to adopt a more dynamic approach. This includes increasing their pace on offence and becoming more aggressive on defence. For instance, incorporating more fast breaks could exploit the turnovers committed by opponents.

Key to Success: Health and Strategy

As the season progresses, maintaining the health of key players will be essential. Keeping Edwards and Waardenburg in the lineup will be crucial for the team's chances of success. Additionally, Taran Armstrong must find his rhythm. With his potential, integrating him into a flexible and strategic game plan could yield positive outcomes.

Furthermore, the Taipans should shift their focus to adopting new strategies that leverage their players' strengths. This might involve coaching adjustments or tactical changes that bring a fresh perspective, inspiring the team to elevate its performance.

The Second Half: Hope on the Horizon?

At the halfway mark of the season, there is still hope for the Cairns Taipans. Many teams have made remarkable comebacks in their campaigns, and the Taipans have time to initiate a turnaround. If the coaching staff emphasises resilience and adaptability, it could motivate the players to overcome challenges.

The team's adjustments to their game plan, combined with the health and productivity of their key players, might lead to a significant turnaround in the second half. Though the odds may seem stacked, the determination of the players and commitment from the coaching staff could provide the spark necessary for a comeback.

Final Thoughts: Can They Turn It Around?

As we reach the halfway point of the NBL season, the Cairns Taipans find themselves in a critical situation. Although standout players like Rob Edwards and Sam Waardenburg showcase individual skill, the broader statistics reveal a team struggling for coherence. To compete effectively, the Taipans must address their weaknesses and adapt their game style.

The potential for improvement is evident, but it will require collective effort and strategic changes. Whether the Taipans can turn their season around remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: fans are eager to see their passion and talent shine as they aim for a successful finish to the season.