Dylan Windler Speaks to Media Ahead of Breakers Clash

Perth Wildcats forward Dylan Windler says the group has already taken important steps forward as they prepare for their Round 2 matchup against the New Zealand Breakers in Auckland this Saturday.

Reflecting on last week’s season opener against Tasmania, Windler admitted it wasn’t the performance he wanted but believes it was a valuable opportunity for the new-look Wildcats to learn and adjust.

“We took some time to review film and point out the things we need to work on offensively,” Windler said. “It’s a new group with a lot of fresh faces, so we’re listening to our coaches, making adjustments, and trying to grow together.

“Give Tassie credit, they did a great job defensively taking away some of our strengths. Personally, it wasn’t the game I wanted, but it’s a learning experience. I watched the game back, picked up on things I can improve, and now it’s about addressing them and moving on.”

Windler believes the Wildcats will find their rhythm quickly, particularly with new import guard Mason Jones steering the offence.

“You can drill things in practice, but transferring those into a live game, especially in a hostile environment, takes a little time,” he said.

“Mason is essentially our point guard and it’s his first year in the NBL and in this system. That’s always a learning curve, but a couple of games in and I’m confident we’ll get it under control quickly.”

Asked about who will take the scoring load this season, Windler emphasised that the Wildcats will lean on depth and balance rather than relying on a single star.

“No one is looking to be the guy. With this group it’s going to be a team effort every night,” he said.

“We’ve got four or five players who can go for 20-plus points on any given night. It’s going to be different guys stepping up depending on matchups. Some nights someone will get hot, but it won’t just be one player carrying us in the scoring department.”

The Breakers will host the clash after starting their season 0-2, and Windler expects a desperate opponent.

“Any team that starts off with a couple of losses is going to be hungry for that first win,” he said. “It’s always tough going over there with the travel and quick turnaround, and they always bring a lot of energy on their home floor. We know they’ll be ready to go.”

Windler also acknowledged the challenge of the long trip across the Tasman.

“There’s not much you can do to prepare for it—you just have to deal with it,” he said. “We’ll get advice from our staff on how to manage the flight and sleep so we’re ready for the quick turnaround. But it’s part of the job, and we’ll be ready come game day.”

The Wildcats tip off against the Breakers this Saturday in Auckland at Spark Arena, as both teams look to notch their first win of the NBL26 season.

Tip off: 3:30pm AWST
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