Is Anthony Davis playing today? Anthony Davis is playing for the Lakers as they host the Warriors for Game 4 of the Western Conference second-round. The game is expected to tip-off at 10:00 PM ET, Monday, May 8th, 2023.
Given how strong the Lakers have been at home, its not surprise they come into Game 4 a 3 point favorite, with many expecting them to take a 3-1 series lead.
MATCH PREVIEW
The Lakers asserted their dominance in Game 3, securing a convincing 127-97 victory and taking a 2-1 series lead against the Golden State Warriors. Led by Davis, who scored 25 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, and LeBron James, who contributed 21 points, the Lakers were in control throughout the game. The victory puts them in a favorable position to secure their spot in the Western Conference finals, a significant step toward reclaiming the NBA championship they won in 2020.
Reflecting on their performance, James acknowledged that the Lakers played the game the right way, focusing on their strengths and being more forceful at the rim. In Game 2, they struggled with their inside game and allowed the Warriors’ pressure to disrupt their rhythm. However, in Game 3, they capitalized on their ability to penetrate and dominate in the paint, reestablishing their identity as a team. Davis, in particular, was more assertive, shooting efficiently from the field and drawing fouls, resulting in an impressive performance.
Despite his injury scare in Game 3, Davis expressed his readiness to compete in Game 4. Davis suffered an injury to his left rib cage when he fell on Draymond Green of the Warriors, but he remained in the game, showing his determination to contribute to his team’s success. As the series continues, the Lakers hope to maintain their momentum while the Warriors aim to bounce back and even the series before heading to San Francisco for Game 5.
The Warriors, led by Stephen Curry’s 23 points, started Game 3 strongly, but their early lead didn’t hold as the Lakers went on a commanding run in the second quarter. Foul trouble plagued the Warriors, as they committed nine fouls in the second period alone, allowing the Lakers to capitalize from the free-throw line. Additionally, Golden State’s usually reliable three-point shooting faltered, with only 29.5 percent success from long distance in Game 3, compared to their strong performance in the previous two games. Despite the loss, the Warriors remain confident in their ability to respond and are determined to even the series in Game 4.
ODDS AND PREDICTIONS
The Lakers have struggled in games following a victory, with a narrow average margin of victory of -0.1. Its anticipated that the Warriors will come into Game 4 with highly improved shooting, especially from their sharpshooters Klay Thompson and Curry. In Game 3, they had a combined shooting percentage of 14-for-35, but if they bounce back strongly, the Warriors have the potential to hand the Lakers another double-digit loss after a victory.
The Lakers’ strong performance in the second quarter of Game 3 was more a result of missed shots by the Warriors rather than exceptional defense by the Lakers. The missed shots accumulated and allowed the Lakers to build momentum that the Warriors couldn’t stop. However, in Game 4, the Warriors will likely make adjustments to prevent the Lakers from dominating from beyond the arc and shooting 52 percent from the field.
In games following a loss, the Warriors have a respectable average margin of victory of +2.9, aligning well with the Lakers’ average margin of victory after a win. Thus, taking the points with the Warriors in Game 4 seems like a prudent choice. The margin of victory statistics also suggest that the Warriors could potentially even the series at two games apiece as they head back to San Francisco. But remember, it’s important to keep in mind that sports betting always involves a degree of risk, and there’s no guarantee that the Warriors will be able to fix their shooting woes on a short turnaround. As always, it’s essential to do your research and make an informed decision based on the available data.
Spread: Lakers -3
Moneyline: Lakers -144, Warriors +122
Pick: Warriors +3
Looking for more NBA tips to up your NBA betting game and increase your chances of hitting it big? Look no further than BF Tips, the premier NBA tipping service! Our team of expert analysts and statisticians work around the clock to deliver you the most up-to-date and accurate tips for every game, ensuring you have the edge you need to come out on top.
With BF Tips, you’ll receive detailed analysis and insights into each game, including player matchups, key stats, and trends to watch for. Plus, our user-friendly platform makes it easy to access our tips and track your progress, so you can stay on top of your betting game.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, BF Tips has everything you need to take your NBA betting to the next level. So why wait? Sign up today and start winning big with BF Tips!
