Both teams enter this match with a 4-1 record, indicating a closely matched contest. Qingdao, playing at home, boasts a formidable defense, ranking third in the league for fewest points allowed per game. The duo of Westherspoon and Mitch provide consistent performances, and their outside shooting is accurate. However, the departure of Yang Hansen has left a void in the paint, leading to insufficient rebounding, and they are at a disadvantage due to a recent congested schedule. Shanxi is on a four-game winning streak, with their offense ranking third in the league. The backcourt pairing of Nowell and Diallo provides significant attacking power. However, the team struggles with inconsistent rebounding, and they are playing away. This match pits Qingdao's sturdy defense against Shanxi's sharp offense, with the battle for rebounds being a crucial factor. Qingdao is favored by 2.5 points. Qingdao's current defensive efficiency leads the league, conceding only 79.5 points per game. The stable performances of Westherspoon and Mitch, coupled with their recent away victory over Xinjiang, have boosted their morale. Their team system is mature, and their tactical execution is strong. Although Shanxi has secured four consecutive wins and exhibits excellent team offense, ranking fourth in the league for points scored, they are playing on the road and have issues with front-court rebounding. While Shanxi has the advantage in previous head-to-head encounters, Qingdao's current form is impressive, and their strong defense can limit Shanxi's team offense. Their duo can also guarantee scoring. Shanxi is unlikely to widen the point gap on the road, and Qingdao is likely to defend their home court and cover the spread. Recommendation: Qingdao Eagles -2.5 win