Raptors vs Warriors Picks & Odds (Jan. 27)

Raps Looking to Build Off Momentum

There is no question the 2022-23 campaign has been an utter disappointment for the Raptors so far. They’re in 13th place and five games below .500, with rumors swirling that Toronto may blow it up at the trade deadline. On a more positive note, the squad looked very good across the last two outings, leaving some array of hope things can be turned around with the second half still ahead.

Knocking off the Knicks was impressive in itself, but taking down the surging Kings by 18 points and locking down defensively proved there is still some fight in this squad to flip the script. Pascal Siakam balled out as the makeshift center, posting a stat line of 26 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists. Five others finished in double-figures, with Precious Achiuwa contributing 19 off the bench. The frontcourt showed out on both ends.

Most importantly, the Raptors managed to contain Domantas Sabonis, arguably Sacramento’s best player. Siakam went toe to toe with him down low as the Lithuanian big man registered just nine points and eight boards. With the Warriors having lost four of their last five in the Bay Area, Toronto should be confident the unbeaten run could continue Friday. If they bring that same energy, it’s very possible.

Warriors Get Back on Track at Home

Golden State’s 18-6 record at home is one of the best in the Association, but Steve Kerr’s squad has hit a road bump as of late in front of Dub Nation. It was four defeats in a row until Wednesday’s nailbiter victory versus the Grizzlies, who pushed them to the absolute brink. Steph Curry even got ejected with just over a minute left in the fourth after throwing his mouthguard in frustration, but the Warriors prevailed.

Before his exit, Curry went off for 34 points to lead the charge, while Klay Thompson contributed 24. The real hero, in the end, was Poole, who scored the winning basket thanks to Draymond Green’s on the fly play call and Donte DiVincenzo’s perfect in-bound pass.

While Golden State certainly made their mistakes (21 turnovers), their championship pedigree shined through in the end. This win meant more than most as well because of their fierce rivalry with the Grizz. Definitely the type of victory the Dubs can build off of.

Raptors vs Warriors Prediction

Meetings between these two teams are never close in recent memory. In my mind, the Warriors should cover. As I said, beating the trash-talking Grizzlies is a morale booster. They’re also 14-9-1 ATS at home. Ride Golden State.