Andrea Trinchieri's changes that brought back hope to Kaunas / News - Basketnews.com

BasketNews expert Augustas Suliauskas takes a look and names the biggest changes Andrea Trinchieri brought to Zalgiris Kaunas by giving video examples and comparing the Italian tactician's decisions to Kazys Maksvytis.

Credit: Erikas Ovčarenko/BNS Credit Erikas Ovčarenko/BNS

Five EuroLeague games intoAndrea Trinchieri'sEuroLeague return withZalgiris Kaunas, and we already see a major shift in mood in Kaunas. Zalgiris have won 3 out of 5, beatingFenerbahce Beko IstanbulandALBA Berlinat home andValencia Basketaway.

Zalgiris Kaunas / Schedule

Zalgiris Kaunas Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul98-75 Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade Zalgiris KaunasFri19:30

Victories are a fresh breath of air for the green-and-whites, but I'd argue it has been more about the style of play that sparks hope in every fan's heart.

Advanced statistics start telling us a little bit of the story. There are a few areas - both offensively and defensively - that stand out.

Looking at the bright side on bballytics.com, Trinchieri's team is playing faster (+3.1 in pace than with previous coach Kazys Maksvytis; from 15th to 8th spot in the EL), shooting more 3-pointers (+2.4 attempts per game; from 13th spot to 3rd), getting way more second chances (+2.8 offensive rebounds; from 17th to 4th), and forcing a bunch of errors defensively (+5.1 in opponents' turnovers; from 15th to 1st).

Such a change in playing style has resulted in a drop in three-point percentage (-3.5% from 1st to 13th) and a significant drop in defensive rebounding (-9.4% from 8th to 18th).

Although the stats reflect what we see on the videotape, what exactly has caused all of these changes? How has Trinchieri adjusted Zalgiris and brought back hope to Kaunas?

Let's go through the changes and video clips that perfectly highlight the big difference.

After-timeout greatness and detailed game plans

Sign up for our premium membership and access exclusive content Subscribe Not ready to subscribe yet? Unlock this page for only 1€ Unlock (1€)