Lakers vs Warriors Odds, Picks & Prediction for Opening Night
Los Angeles Lakers vs Golden State Preview
Los Angeles comes into this season looking to turn things around after a woeful campaign a year ago. The Lakeshow went just 33-49 and missed the play-in tournament altogether. It can only go up from here though after hiring a new coach in Darvin Ham, who is more defensive-minded and is willing to do whatever it takes to help Russell Westbrook thrive alongside Bron and Anthony Davis, although a trade is still possible if he struggles again.
Basing anything off the preseason is usually not a good idea, but LA did get blown out in almost every loss. The fact they actually beat Golden State is a good sign, though. For Tuesday’s matchup, Dennis Schroder, who reunited with the team this offseason, is out injured and will miss 3-4 weeks. Westbrook is also a game-time decision with a minor hamstring issue, while another summer acquisition, Troy Brown is on the shelf due to a back injury.
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) October 17, 2022
The Warriors will be presented with their 2022 NBA title rings on Tuesday but once tip-off comes, it’s back to business as Steve Kerr’s squad starts their pursuit of another Larry O’Brien, where they sit at +700 in the NBA Championship odds to repeat. Golden State did lose a couple of key role players this offseason as Otto Porter Jr and Gary Payton II left in free agency. However, Jordan Poole and Andrew Wiggins just received brand new extensions, solidifying their future in the Bay Area.
The Dubs lost their preseason finale to the Nuggets as the entire rotation played equal minutes. They’re dealing with minimal absences for Tuesday’s game, with Andre Iguodala resting and Moses Moody a game-time decision due to a calf injury. Klay Thompson’s only appearance in the preseason was in that Denver contest therefore his minutes might be slightly limited vs. LA. We’ll have to see.
Draymond Green meanwhile is back with the team after his scuffle with Poole. Everything is behind the two and they’re ready to ball out.
Lakers vs Warriors Prediction
Personally, I’m not giving the Lakers much of a chance here. Sure they might be better this season, but the Dubs are just a much better team and absolutely flourish at the Chase Center, going 31-10 in 2021-22. Golden State will comfortably cover.
