Golden State Warriors vs Sacramento Kings Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 23/04/2023, 02:44  by Joseph King | Modified on 23/04/2023 at 03:44 in NBA Predictions

The Golden State Warriors look to pull even in the series when they host the Sacramento Kings for game four of the NBA Playoffs Western Conference first round. Sacramento raced out to an early 2-0 series lead winning both of their games in their own building to protect their home court advantage. The defending champion Warriors battled back to win game three at the Chase Center by a score of 114-97, putting the series at 2-1 in favor of the Kings ahead of this crucial game four clash. The oddsmakers have Golden State as the slight favorites to win this series and earn a second round matchup against either the Lakers or the Grizzlies.

The story of the Warriors’ season has been the stark contrast in their home and away performances. It’s no secret that the defending champions play at a completely different level in their own gym but it’s still shocking to see the results of the season. Golden State have won just 11 and lost 32 (including the playoffs) of their away games so far compared to 34 wins and only eight losses at home. For that reason, it’s understandable why the bookmakers have the home team as such heavy favorites for game four. The Warriors’ defense was much improved in game three which was an area that they have struggled with at times this season. They also have Golden State legend Stephen Curry to thank for an inspired performance which saw the two-time MVP drop 36 points and shoot six of 12 from deep.

The Kings will have to reconcile with their lack of experience at this stage as they come up against undoubtedly the most experienced team in the playoffs. However, this is far from a foregone conclusion as Sacramento finished with the West’s best away record in the regular season with 25 wins and 16 losses. The Kings did not shoot the ball well at under 40% from the field and an anemic 23% from downtown. It was the first time this series that they were held to under 100 points after putting up 126 and 114 in the first and second games, respectively. It was also going to be tough for Sacramento to win in game three as it was the team’s first away playoff game in almost two decades. It’s fair to believe that Sacramento might feel a bit more settled in game four after getting that first away trip out of the way.