The Kings host the Warriors in a series defining Game 5 of the Western Conference first-round. The game is expected to tip-off at 10:00 PM ET, Wednesday, April 26th, 2023.
Given the Warriors poor record on the road, it’s surprising the Warriors are a 1.5 point favorite, with many expecting them to come into this match with confidence from their win in Game 4.
MATCH PREVIEW
The Warriors are gearing up for Game 5 against the Kings in a thrilling Western Conference playoff series. The Kings had a strong start, winning the first two games behind the efforts of De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis. However, the Warriors, drawing on their championship experience, rallied back and won Games 3 and 4 at home.
The momentum has shifted in favor of the Warriors, as it was revealed that Fox sustained an avulsion fracture on his left shooting hand during Game 4. Although he has expressed his determination to play, his status remains doubtful. Fox has been a key player for the Kings, averaging 31.5 points, 7.0 assists, and 6.0 rebounds in the series.
The Warriors, despite being the No. 6 seed, are no strangers to overcoming challenges on the road. They had a subpar 11-30 record on the road in the regular season, the worst among all playoff and play-in teams. However, they boast an impressive 33-8 home record, which is better than any team in the Eastern Conference.
In Game 4, the Kings made a valiant effort to take the series lead, but fell short with a narrow loss. Fox and Murray had notable performances for the Kings, while Curry, Thompson, and Poole led the charge for the Warriors. The Kings had a potential game-winning shot from Barnes that just missed, leaving them hungry for a win in Game 5.
The Warriors employed a strategic move in Game 4, bringing defensive stalwart Draymond Green off the bench after his one-game suspension in Game 3. Green was tasked with defending Fox in the second half, limiting his effectiveness despite his scoring efforts.
With the series tied at 2-2, Game 5 is expected to be a fiercely contested battle between the young and talented Kings and the experienced and accomplished Warriors. The Warriors are optimistic with Fox’s injury status up in the air, but the Kings are determined to protect their home court advantage.
ODDS AND PREDICTIONS
Despite the absence of their leading scorer, Fox, the Kings have shown throughout the season that they have multiple offensive options to generate points. Additionally, their strong home defense has been effective in forcing turnovers and limiting the Warriors’ fast break opportunities, while also capitalizing on second-chance points.
On the other hand, the Warriors have struggled with turnovers, averaging nearly 20 per game on the road, leading to a decrease in their shot attempts. Furthermore, the Kings have been dominant in controlling the paint, and it’s anticipated that this trend will continue.
As a result, suggestion is to take Sacramento to cover the +4 point spread. 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 experience of the Warriors roster won’t get the best of the Kings down the stretch. As always, it’s essential to do your research and make an informed decision based on the available data.
Spread: Warriors -1.5
Moneyline: Warriors -120, Lakers +102
Pick: Kings +1.5
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