Golden State Warriors vs Los Angeles Lakers Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 02/05/2023, 09:40  by Joseph King | Modified on 02/05/2023 at 09:41 in NBA Predictions

A blockbuster matchup in the NBA Playoffs Western Conference semifinals is set to tip off with the sixth-seed Golden State Warriors hosting the seventh-seed LA Lakers for game one of this best of seven duel. The defending champion Warriors were taken to seven games by the Kings in the first round but the Dubs' experience would ultimately see them prevail. The Lakers, meanwhile, ousted the second-seed Memphis Grizzlies 4-2 thanks to a 40 point blowout victory in game six. The oddsmakers have the Warriors as 1.70 favorites to win the series and advance to their seventh Conference Finals in the last nine seasons.

A vintage Steph Curry performance in game seven against the Kings inspired his team to victory as the two-time MVP dropped a playoff career high 50 points. The Hall-of-Fame point guard took an absurd 38 shots in the game including 18 from three point range. Golden State were able to pick up a rare road win when they needed it most as the team holds the biggest discrepancy in the NBA in their home winning percentage (79.6%) and their away winning percentage (27.3%). They’ll open this series in front of the home fans at the Chase Center where the Warriors have won five of their last six.

The Lakers are one of the hottest teams in the league as they appear to be finally healthy and peaking at the perfect time. Big man Anthony Davis was a complete monster on the defensive end against the Grizzlies and his performances will be key if the Lakers are to advance to the Conference Finals for the first time since their title-winning 2020 team. AD’s presence inside transforms Los Angeles into arguably the best defensive unit in the league. The Lakers have now won seven of their last 10 games.