The Western Conference semifinal is set, as the Los Angeles Lakers take on the Golden State Warriors in a best-of-seven series. Both teams have impressive records, with the Warriors having won three of the past six and four of the past eight NBA titles, while LeBron James led the Lakers to their 17th championship in 2020. Despite the Lakers having a 6-1 edge over the Warriors in playoff matchups, the Warriors remain a formidable opponent.
The series begins on Tuesday in Oakland, California, with the Lakers having two extra days of rest compared to the Warriors, who are coming off an exhausting seven-game series. There is a possibility of a Warriors’ letdown due to fatigue. However, with only one day between every game in the series, it remains to be seen how LeBron will hold up if he has to shoulder a heavy offensive load.
The matchup between Steph Curry and LeBron James has been heavily anticipated, and while both players are undoubtedly talented, one player stands out. McIntyre predicts that the matchup favors the Golden State Warriors, with the buy-low player to target in the prop market being Jordan Poole. Poole struggled against the Kings, shooting only 33% from the field and 25% from deep. However, he is electric offensively and should be able to have his way with D’Angelo Russell, despite being targeted by LeBron when he’s on the floor.
In conclusion, the Lakers and Warriors are set to go head-to-head in what is sure to be a thrilling semifinal series. While the Lakers may have the edge historically, the Warriors have proven to be a formidable opponent in recent years. It remains to be seen who will come out on top in this matchup, but it’s sure to be a spectacle that basketball fans won’t want to miss.