United veteran admits NBL title fire is still 'raging'

The fire inside Melbourne United sharpshooter Chris Goulding hasn't diminished one bit over his two decades in the NBL.

If anything, it has only intensified after a series of near-misses in the latter stages of his decorated career.

"It's there ... it's raging," Goulding said ahead of United's season opener against the Adelaide 36ers on Saturday night.

"I want to do it and help my teammates as best I can for as long as I can."

Goulding battled foot and knee injuries, as well as illness, at different stages last season as Melbourne fell short of a semi-finals berth, losing the play-in game.

That defeat to the Perth Wildcats was ultimately the last game of championship-winning coach Dean Vickerman's reign, with successor Jacob Chance ushering in a new era this season.

Ex-NBA talents Cole Anthony, Joe Ingles, Josh Oduro and Luke Travers are highly regarded acquisitions, as is Sam Waardenburg, while Goulding again spearheads a talented core as captain.

The 37-year-old has previously spent the NBL off-seasons playing overseas, but opted to stay home this year with his young family and prepare for his 20th domestic campaign.

"I stayed here, spent some time with family and focused on my body," Goulding said.

"I'm the freshest and best I've felt in a number of years, which is good on a personal level.

"It's just about how I can be reliable for the team now and be there in any capacity they need me, and try to squeak out some wins."

Goulding averaged just 12.8 points per game last season - his lowest NBL return since 2012 - after averaging 19.1 in the previous campaign when Melbourne were runners-up.

But the veteran doesn't feel the need to produce crazy numbers to ensure United are successful in their latest title pursuit.

"It's important for me to be aggressive, and that can lead to better shots for my teammates.