Stanford Cardinal vs Merrimack Warriors Picks and Predictions December 17th 2024

Stanford Aims to Stay Focused Ahead of ACC Play

Stanford (8-2) continues its preparation for the Atlantic Coast Conference grind when it welcomes Merrimack to Northern California on Tuesday night. The Cardinal come into the matchup riding momentum after an 89-81 road victory over rival California last Saturday, marking a strong start to their first season in the ACC.

Tuesday’s game offers a potential letdown opportunity for Stanford, as it falls between emotional matchups with Cal and former Pac-12 rival Oregon. However, coach Kyle Smith trusts his team leader, senior center Maxime Raynaud, to keep his squad grounded and focused.

“(Raynaud) has got a lot of sweat equity in the program,” Smith said. “It’s rare to get guys that are willing to hold their teammates accountable — and it’s OK.”

Raynaud has been nothing short of dominant this season. He leads Stanford in scoring (22.1 points per game) and rebounding (11.3 boards per game) while sitting tied for the national lead with eight double-doubles. The 7-foot-1 big man’s consistency has been critical, particularly at home, where he’s recorded a double-double in six of seven games.

Merrimack Rides Momentum into California Trip

While Stanford gears up for the ACC, Merrimack (5-6) is also building momentum in its new conference. After transitioning to the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC), the Warriors opened league play with road victories against Canisius and Niagara earlier this month. They arrive in California riding a four-game winning streak.

Coach Joe Gallo knows his team faces a significant challenge in dealing with Raynaud’s size and skill. However, Gallo is confident his team’s signature zone defense can create challenges for the Cardinal, particularly if star players struggle to find their rhythm.

“We’re really unique with that zone,” Gallo said. “Every now and then, some really good players get bored. ‘Where do I find my shot?’”

The Warriors will rely heavily on Budd Clark, their standout guard who has emerged as a consistent offensive force. Clark scored 22 points earlier this season against Rutgers and has posted at least 18 points in six straight games. His scoring ability has earned him two MAAC Player of the Week honors this season.

Raynaud’s Dominance Key for Stanford

Stanford will aim to exploit its clear size advantage against Merrimack. Raynaud has been a matchup nightmare all season, contributing heavily on both ends of the floor. In Stanford’s most recent home game, Raynaud posted a stellar 14 points and 17 rebounds in a 77-63 win over Utah Valley.

Meanwhile, guards like Michael Jones and Kanaan Carlyle provide balance for the Cardinal offense. Jones is averaging 13.2 points per game, while Carlyle has emerged as a reliable scorer, contributing 11.8 points per game.

With their defense improving and Raynaud anchoring the interior, Stanford has all the tools to overwhelm Merrimack in the paint.

Merrimack’s Challenge: Slowing Down Stanford

Merrimack enters this matchup with a unique defensive scheme, relying on a disruptive zone defense to stifle opponents. However, Stanford’s size and depth present a significant challenge. If the Warriors hope to keep the game competitive, they’ll need strong shooting performances from Clark and complementary scorers like Jordan Derkack.

The Warriors’ zone has been effective at frustrating opponents, but maintaining defensive discipline against Raynaud and Stanford’s perimeter threats will be key.

What’s Next for Stanford and Merrimack

After hosting Merrimack, Stanford will face Oregon on Saturday in San Jose before taking a 10-day break ahead of its ACC opener at Clemson on Jan. 1. The Cardinal will look to build momentum heading into their new conference slate.

For Merrimack, the trip to California wraps up with a visit to Saint Mary’s on Thursday before returning to MAAC play. The Warriors will aim to gain experience from these challenging matchups against high-major opponents.

Who will claim the title? Find out in College Basketball Championship Odds!

Prediction

Stanford’s size, depth, and home-court advantage will likely prove too much for Merrimack to handle. Expect Raynaud to continue his dominant run as the Cardinal roll to another home victory.

Final Score Prediction: Stanford 82, Merrimack 60.