Warriors vs Lakers Thursday Prediction | NBA Picks Today, Best Bets
John Canady
Host · Writer
The Golden State Warriors are set for a Thursday night Western Conference showdown with the Los Angeles Lakers. Golden State enters this matchup riding a three-game winning streak as they continue to look like a true contender with their new-look roster. On the flip side, the Lakers are still searching for a winning formula with their re-tooled roster, but their 3-2 record over their last five games shows promise that first-year head coach JJ Redick may be figuring things out. Nonetheless, it’s always expected to be a good game in a battle between Stephen Curry and LeBron James.
Warriors vs Lakers
- Location: Crypto.com Arena – Los Angeles, California
- Where to Watch: TNT/truTV/Max
- Time: 10:00 p.m. ET
- Spread: Lakers -1 | Total: 229
- Moneyline: Lakers -116 | Warriors -102
Please be aware that betting odds may change after the publication of this article.
Warriors vs Lakers Best Bet: Warriors ML -102
Entering this matchup, these two teams are so closely matched that it translates directly to the betting odds. Despite that, the fact that the Warriors’ moneyline odds at -102 are arguably the best odds available in terms of outcome of the game is more than solid. The Golden State has looked the part since its trade deadline acquisition of Jimmy Butler III. However, there’s no secret that these two teams have the personnel to go toe-to-toe with any roster in the league. In this matchup, I’m looking at the coaching battle between Steve Kerr and JJ Redick, and I like the chances that Kerr can coach his squad to a win on the road.
Warriors vs Lakers Best Total Bet: Over 229
As mentioned above, both teams have the firepower to turn this matchup into a shootout. With some of the best scorers in the league set to face off in this matchup, this game will be must-see TV. Assuming each squad puts forth their best efforts, I can easily see the total score exceeding the 229-point set total with a final score of 123-117 as a realistic outcome.
Warriors Best Player Bet: Stephen Curry 6+ Threes Made +190
Stephen Curry needs no introduction, especially when it comes to three-point shooting. The Warriors star is undoubtedly the best shooter in the league and arguably in NBA history. Coming off a 52-point performance, which included 12 threes on Tuesday, it won’t be a surprise to see the sharpshooter stay aggressive in this marquee matchup. All Curry needs is to see one shot fall, and after that, we all know a historic night could come on any given night.
Lakers Best Player Bet: LeBron James 25+ Points +102
At 40, LeBron James continues to dominate the league, averaging 24.4 points, 8.4 assists, and 8.1 rebounds, while shooting 51% from the field. The versatile forward hasn’t been as aggressive as a scorer this season, but at any given time, James can flip a switch and take over a game. Against the Warriors, the Lakers’ star tends to rise to the occasion. Not just because of the showdown between him and Curry, but also because he knows the Warriors stand in their way of a championship run. With the veteran likely looking to make a statement, it won’t be surprising to see James put together a big performance on Thursday.
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