Real Madrid guard Theo Maledon has emerged as the standout positive during an irregular start to the basketball season, delivering strong individual performances even as the club suffers an unprecedented three-game losing streak in the EuroLeague. Despite early turbulence under Pedro Martínez, the French guard has adjusted quickly to the system, outperforming teammates Facundo Campazzo and Andrés Feliz in early evaluations.
Maledon Carries the Load Amid EuroLeague Struggles
Real Madrid is currently working through a difficult stretch after dropping three consecutive matches to begin the EuroLeague campaign, marking the worst opening run in the club’s history in the competition. Fortunately, an early victory in the newly launched SuperCup secured an initial piece of silverware, softening the blow of recent setbacks.
Through the early weeks of the schedule, Maledon has anchored the backcourt. Following the SuperCup, he finished as Real Madrid’s leading scorer and highest-rated player in three of four appearances. In EuroLeague play, he averages 22 minutes and 48 seconds of floor time per game—trailing only Edy Tavares—while posting 15.3 points, 6.0 assists, and a PIR (Performance Index Rating) of 22.7, good for fifth best across the entire league.
Adapting to Pedro Martínez’s System on Both Ends
Reflecting on his progression, Maledon noted that his integration into the roster has accelerated through physical preparation over the summer. Siento que me estoy adaptando más. Estoy empezando a entender mejor el sistema y a encontrar formas de impactar en el juego en ambos lados de la cancha, no sólo en ataque, sino cumpliendo con lo que se requiere en defensa,
Maledon said ahead of the team’s recent EuroLeague double-week.
That multi-faceted impact was on full display during a recent continental fixture against Hapoel Tel Aviv. Maledon recorded 26 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists, and a 40 PIR in that matchup, following up on a 17-point, 23-PIR performance against Unicaja in the Liga Endesa opener. Observers note that his summer training regimen in the weight room has yielded added muscle and sharper decision-making, allowing him to pressure opposing defenses and consistently draw fouls in congested lanes, though outside shooting remains an area for continued refinement.
Trip to Santiago Awaits Real Madrid
Real Madrid travels north to face newly promoted Monbus Obradoiro. Tip-off is scheduled for 12:30 local time in Santiago, giving Martínez’s squad an immediate opportunity to correct course in domestic competition following their recent continental test.
