The Golden State Warriors make the short trip to the Staples Center for a Western Conference showdown with the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday afternoon. The Warriors (17-2) and Stephen Curry are off to a blistering hot start and sit atop the Conference through 19 games. The Clippers (11-8) have been getting it done defensively and will try and slow down the fast-paced Warriors. Golden State opens this game as road favorites.
Will the Los Angeles Clippers cover the spread at home against the Golden State Warriors on Sunday afternoon?
Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Clippers Betting Lines
At Basketball Insiders, we get all of our game lines and information from the best betting sites. All of the game lines that are featured below are taken from BetUS.
Point Spread: Golden State Warriors -2.5
Money Line: GS -140 / LAC +120
Total: Over/Under 214.5
Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Clippers Injury Report
Andre Igoudala (knee) is questionable for this game but is not expected to suit up for the Warriors. James Wiseman (knee) and Klay Thompson (Achilles) remain out.
Nicolas Batum (COVID-19) remains out for the Clippers until next week.
Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Clippers Preview
Clippers Playing Dominant Defensively
After a rough stretch to start the season the Clippers have been in a nice groove winning seven of their last 10 games. They have cranked up their defensive intensity as of late, ranking second in defensive rating (102.5) over their last 10 games. They are only averaging 105.9 points per game, but as long as they keep up their D they will continue to be competitive against anyone in the West.
Brought energy from the jump.
📼 @honey highlights from the win. pic.twitter.com/9aZSMFD0ev
— LA Clippers (@LAClippers) November 27, 2021
Playing without fellow star Kawhi Leonard all year, Paul George has carried the offensive load for the Clippers. The 31-year-old is averaging 26.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists through 19 games. Kawhi is not expected to be back until at least February, so expect George to continue putting up dazzling numbers in addition to his usual consistent defensive prowess.
Warriors and Curry on Torrid Pace
Stephen Curry and the Warriors are off to the best start in the NBA this season. They have won 17 of their first 19 games, and lead the league in most major offensive categories. They rank 2nd in offensive rating (113) and are averaging a league-leading 114.3 points per game. Curry is playing at an MVP level, mustering 28.2 points and shooting the 3-ball at a spectacular 41.8% clip.
Started the game strong.
Finished the game strong.@Verizon || Game Rewind pic.twitter.com/lDNq6vtA93— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) November 27, 2021
Even more impressive is their intensity on the defensive end. Coach Steve Kerr’s squad is leading the NBA in defensive rating and is allowing 100.8 points per game. The lone blemish on their resume is 15.6 turnovers per game, but that is just being picky. It remains to be seen how long the Warriors can continue playing at this level. Klay Thompson returning to the lineup sometime next month propels them into title favorites.
Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Clippers Prediction
Playing without fellow star Kawhi Leonard all year, Paul George has carried the offensive load for the Clippers. The 31-year-old is averaging 26.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists through 19 games. George has always been a defensive stalwart, but he has been shooting the ball efficiently this season.
The Warriors rank top five in nearly all offensive statistical categories this year, including points per game, field goal percentage, and assists. Los Angeles is fourth in defensive rating, but they lack the dogs to compete with the Warriors shooting the rock. Golden State won’t run them out of the gym, but they will come out on top once again here and cover the spread on the road.
